Andrew Mangiapane Returns, But A Crowded Blackhawks Lineup Awaits

Andrew Mangiapane’s return has moved beyond medical clearance. Activated on October 23 after a lower-body injury, the 30-year-old Chicago Blackhawks winger subsequently returned against Florida on October 25, contributing an assist. His next challenge is establishing a regular role in Chicago’s forward group.

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How Mangiapane Got Here

Mangiapane’s season barely got started before he was ruled out with injury. He suffered a lower-body injury during the season opener in Vegas on September 29, logging just over five minutes without a point before heading to the sidelines. Chicago placed him on injured reserve on October 7 and recalled Dominic Toninato to fill the roster spot.

A Lineup With No Obvious Openings

The Blackhawks did not stand still while Mangiapane was unavailable. Head coach Jeff Blashill has settled on four lines he is reluctant to break up. Connor Bedard, Patrick Kane and Roman Kantserov lead the way, followed by Bertuzzi, Frondell and Teuvo Teravainen, who are all among the team’s top scorers. Ryan Donato, Oliver Moore and Frank Nazar form the third trio, while Ryan Greene, Jordan Greenway and Cole Smith have been one of the club’s most effective groups since training camp.

Blashill made his stance clear the day Mangiapane first skated. He did not expect him to play against Montreal, and he described the situation as healthy competition, noting that several forwards have impressed in his absence.

The Path Back Into The Lineup

There is still a way back into the regular lineup for Mangiapane. He has figured into the last few games, playing recently on a line with Bertuzzi and Frondell.

The Blackhawks are keen admirers of his competitive edge, a quality they valued after acquiring him from Edmonton back in March. He scored 35 goals for Calgary in 2021-22, though he’s managed just two points in 10 games after arriving in Chicago and is still working to rediscover the scoring touch that once earned him a $5.8 million-a-year extension.

What This Means For Chicago Going Forward

It’s time that matters the most right now. Mangiapane is on a two-year, $7.2 million contract, but he needs time on the ice to show what he still has to offer. For Chicago, the depth is a good problem to have after finishing near the bottom of the standings last season, but the competition leaves little room for passengers. Still, he will likely return to the lineup at some point, and that will be his chance to impress.

Conclusion

Mangiapane’s return is certainly encouraging, yet it does not change the reality that Chicago has built real depth up front. The Blackhawks have competition at every spot and a coach who remains reluctant to disrupt lines that are working, so a place on the roster has to be earned rather than just handed over. If the veteran can bring energy, physicality and timely scoring when he gets time on the ice, he can still carve out a meaningful role for himself this season. Until then, he will have to remain patient.

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