Quote:
Originally Posted by ComixZone
Why do you believe he isn’t a play driver?
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Because he isn't? It isn't his strength or skill set? Mangiapane isn't a great puck carrier and his zone entries aren't fantastic. Where he excels is finding the soft spots and using his smarts to make plays happen. His best play is the dish to the slot from anywhere near the trapezoid. He is really good at finding soft spots low and predicting where the puck is going to be, finding that puck and then making the quick pass. Those plays come from other players carrying the play and Mangiapane flying under the radar. I think that is Mangiapane's greatest skill - going unnoticed. He's a guy that sneaks up on you makes you pay because you're focused elsewhere. Most of his goals are the "where did that guy come from" variety. When you're able to focus on him, he's easily neutralized. Don't get me wrong, Mangiapane has turned into a very effective player, he just needs the right line mates to let him really shine.