Mintos Excel in Early Season, Eye Playoff Positioning

The management of the Prince Albert Mintos is expressing satisfaction with the start of the current season in the Saskatchewan Male AAA Hockey League (SMAAAHL). After 16 games, the Mintos hold a record of 9 wins, 7 losses, and are currently positioned seventh in the standings. This performance has surprised many, especially considering the team’s youth and the number of rookies on the roster.

Dennis Pott, the Mintos’ general manager, commented on the team’s performance, stating, “Considering how young the team is and how many rookies we had, I think we’re pleasantly surprised where we are.” He noted that the team’s current standing places them in a competitive position for playoff contention. “All in all, with where we are now sitting in a playoff spot, we’re still in the hunt, and we’re getting players back healthy, so we’re happy where we are in the standings right now,” Pott added.

In the coming weeks, the Mintos expect to improve further as they welcome back injured players Madden Dell and Cohen Greenwood. Their most recent games showcased resilience, as the team achieved a weekend sweep over the Notre Dame Hounds after facing two consecutive losses against the league-leading Pat Canadians.

As they prepare for their next match against the Saskatoon Contacts on Thursday, the Mintos have been led offensively by rookie Maxim Cooper, who currently tops the scoring chart with 16 points. Following him are Liam Myhre, the October SMAAAHL Defenceman of the Month, with 14 points, and veterans Barret Berger and rookie Carter Hryciuk, both contributing 10 points each.

Pott praised Cooper’s contributions, remarking, “Max has been a pleasant surprise for us, and it’s not just on the score sheet. He’s great in the room, he’s great in the community, he’s a quiet leader and he does the little things right.” His ability to enhance his teammates’ performance and facilitate puck distribution has been invaluable to the Mintos.

The Mintos’ schedule remains challenging, as they will continue to face familiar opponents until the holiday break next month. Upcoming games include three matchups against the Warman Wildcats, one against the Battlefords Stars, and two games each against the Contacts, Saskatoon Blazers, and Moose Jaw Warriors.

In the spirit of community engagement, the Mintos are organizing a winter clothing drive during their game on December 14 against the Blazers. Fans are encouraged to bring winter clothing items to contribute to the donation effort, further strengthening the connection between the team and its supporters.