I strongly disagree with the sentiment that Mangiapane has done something wrong without knowing the actual specifics of the negotiations. If there was a true confirmation that the Flames had offered a one-way contract, especially at $800,000, I would be a little bit more harsh but if this is coming down to a one-way or two-way contract, which I believe it to be, I can't blame Mangiapane.
There's potential for a huge difference and a huge gamble to make for someone who hasn't banked a lot of cash. Even if he wanted to bet on himself being bonafide-NHL calibre, there's always the risk of a career ending injury. Even a minor injury in training camp causing a set back could be enough reason for him to pass through waivers. Or you know, just the fact the guy put up 13 points and there's always players 'sneaking' through waivers at the beginning of the season that people are surprised by.
If the Flames won't offer him a one-way, the question needs to be asked by Mangiapane and his camp as to "why?" and it's clear the answer in-part relies on the notion that the Flames suspect that he could end up in the AHL, otherwise there's no reason for them to not offer a one-way.
And I know many of this board wouldn't accept a job opportunity that paid us "$100,000 but on a whim we can pay you $20,000" if you thought you were worth $100,000, so I don't blame Mangiapane for not accepting his similar structured qualifying offer.
With that said, I also don't blame the Flames. To keep operating costs low they won't want people in the AHL making NHL money, players like Gillies making $750,000 in the AHL start to add up from a business perspective.
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