Honestly, I wasn't sure I was going to make videos this summer after yet another frustrating season and general apathy.
But losing Gio made me want to finish off his series of videos, and I planned on making Mangiapane videos for his season and his Team Canada MVP performance, and I'll still end up making videos for the usual suspects as well... so here we are.
Gio got a lot of heat this past season, but honestly his stickwork, his shotblocking, his work ethic, and his defensive awareness were all still elite IMO. Tough to see him go via the expansion draft, but I'm also glad the team didn't pay a premium to protect him after Tanev had such a strong year and forced the team's hand in terms of protection slots. I also wouldn't be shocked to see him return next season via some 1 year contracts if he's interested in coming back.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FoqpYKntCk