Jacob Battaglia signs with Calgary Flames after breakout year in Kingston

Joel Vanderlaan

@jovanderlaan

Photo by Natalie Shaver/OHL Images

Even before he officially joined the Kingston Frontenacs, head coach Troy Mann saw potential in Jacob Battaglia. Now, after a breakout season, the talented forward has become one of the top offensive threats in the OHL.

Since Mann took over behind the bench that potential has turned into production, catching the attention of NHL scouts. The Calgary Flames took notice last summer, selecting him 62nd overall in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft. On Saturday, they signed him to a three-year entry-level contract.

"It’s funny, after I lost my position in Belleville, I came down to watch Kingston play a couple of times just to keep busy," Mann said. "He was a 16-year-old then, and while he didn’t play much, I saw a lot of potential from a skill perspective. He got off to a slow start last year with the previous coach, but when I took over, I felt like he needed an opportunity to fly a little bit. He rewarded me for that trust by having a great season."

Taken 27th overall in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection by Kingston, the Mississauga native put up career-high numbers this season with 40 goals and 90 points in 68 games and was a mainstay in a Kingston attack that scored 281 times tied for second most in the Eastern Conference.

Photo by Luke Durda/OHL Images

Heading into the season, Mann wanted Battaglia to increase his offensive output and take a more direct approach to his overall game.

"This year, I told him, 'You need to score 40. That should be your goal.' He had 31 last season, and he did that," he said. "Now, we just have to keep pushing him to play in straight lines, be strong on the forecheck, and improve his play without the puck. That’s the conversation with all young players, whether at this level or the American League."

After his breakout campaign, Mann still believes the best is yet to come from Battaglia.

"The sky’s the limit for him next season," he said.