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Flint Firebirds

Firebirds Acquire Defenseman Roberto Mancini from Windsor

January 8, 2024 - Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
Flint Firebirds News Release


FLINT, Mich. - The Flint Firebirds announced on Monday that they have acquired defenseman Roberto Mancini from the Windsor Spitfires in exchange for two draft choices.

Mancini, a 2003-born defenseman, is in his overage season and his final year of OHL eligibility. He has played in 19 games for the Spitfires and recorded three assists and a +7 plus/minus rating. Mancini was traded to the Spitfires from the Saginaw Spirit in November. With Saginaw this season, he had seven assists and a -3 plus/minus in 17 games played.

"Roberto is a steady, stay-at-home defenseman who will strengthen our back end," Firebirds Head Scout Mike Oliverio said. "We needed to add a little bit of experience on the back end, to help with younger guys and eat up some minutes. We like that Roberto can eat up those minutes and bring a veteran presence to our group. He's a puck mover who will push the puck north and get it to the forwards. A steadying force whose presence will help our forwards take a few chances and feel comfortable knowing that he's back there."

A native of Vaughan, Ontario, Mancini was originally selected by Saginaw in the fifth round of the 2019 OHL Priority Selection. He recorded 13 goals and 12 assists in 66 games for Saginaw during the 2022-23 season and over 204 career OHL games he has 25 goals and 44 assists.

"Roberto brings grit, passion and a great puck moving ability to our lineup," Firebirds General Manager Dave McParlan said. "This move will make us deeper and more mature on the back end. He's a fifth-year OHLer and will add to the character and heart of our dressing room. We're excited to add Roberto to our organization."

Flint is sending Brantford's 2024 second round pick and its own 2027 third round pick to the Spitfires in the deal.

The Firebirds will return to action on Wednesday night on home ice against the Owen Sound Attack. It's a Buy One Get One Wednesday; any fan who buys a ticket to the game can get a second ticket of equal or lesser value for free. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Dort Financial Center.

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