Click here to sign up for our free daily newsletter
The Nipawin Hawks have signed Mintos Captain Van Taylor to a Letter of Intent for next season. (Submitted photo/Nipawin Hawks)
Prince Albert Product

Hawks sign P.A. Mintos captain for next season

Jan 11, 2024 | 11:59 AM

The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League’s (SJHL) Nipawin Hawks have signed Prince Albert product Van Taylor to a Letter of Intent for next season.

The Hawks drafted Taylor in the second round, 14th overall in the SJHL’s 2022 U15 Draft. Nipawin Associate General Manager Dana Dirks has known the Taylor family for a long time and knows he can play all situations at the next level.

“He’s a captain, he’s a fantastic leader, plays on the power-play and the penalty kill, he can be that effective shutdown guy,” Dirks said of the now 17-year-old Prince Albert Mintos veteran.

This is Taylor’s third and final season with the U18 AAA program in his hometown. Tayor had 15 points his first season, 13 last year, though he missed significant time with an injury, and so far this year he’s scored four goals and helped on 20 others. Dirks said playing the point on the power-play and his puck passing is part of his repertoire.

“He’s moving the puck around and is a lot more of a distributor than he is a shooter which is something we always need. Being responsible on the defensive side of the puck as well,” Dirks added.

Taylor is the second AAA U18 captain they have recruited this week, following the signing of Adrien Fox of the Airdrie Bisons in Alberta. Dirks said getting players that lead teams is something the Hawks seek in players.

“A thing we’re focusing on is having good leadership and people in the dressing room and that’s something we definitely want to carry on,” he said.

Nipawin is on the ice Friday when they travel to Flin Flon to meet the Bombers.

clark.stork@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @ClarkStork