I think Bennett still has some upside, has shown some flashes of high skill level, and can crush people. I like mangiapane as he's been a solid younger player who puts up some points and works hard but with that in mind I also think he's the most replaceable of those on the protection fence and plays wing.
I believe it'll be easier to find a bargain winger next off season than trying to replace Backlund or miss out on Bennett who has been gaining some confidence and may show value at centre possibly. We already know he can put up some points at wing (12 pts this year but didn't seem to have nearly as many shots and slightly poorer SH% than most years) . Mang only put up 32 points on the second line and wasn't a major contributor in the playoffs particularly. Bennett was a beast in the playoffs, had worse linemates generally, and can bring more than just scoring. If need be, it's much easier generally to move a center to wing than the reverse which has me leaning toward Bennett.
Imo the unprotected slot will be between Bennett and Mang, and I would lean towards protecting Bennett.
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