Mustangs begin preseason against Flin Flon following successful Fall Camp

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During the intrasquad game, there were 42 players competing against each other, with that list shrinking down closer to 30 as the preseason begins.

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Melfort will then carry 25 to begin the regular season, which means cuts are still to be made in the next week or so.

“Overall, there’ll be five guys that, unfortunately, we’re gonna have to release at some point or trade to another organization, but everybody proved over the weekend that they have the ability to play and can play in our league. There’s going to be some tough decisions for the coaching staff moving forward,” Oakes added.

“Over the course of those exhibition games, we’re going to give everybody an opportunity to showcase what they bring to the table. The first game here on Monday night will be a bit of a younger game, so some of the prospects will get an opportunity to get their feet wet and showcase what they have. Moving forward, it will be an older lineup and a lot more competitive for guys trying to earn spots.”

Oakes knows those tough decisions come down to where certain players may fit in the lineup and if they fit into the team culture.

He said the willingness to compete and play hard every shift are guys who fit the ‘Blevins mould’.

Those skilled players who play heavy and can skate showed up last year, as the team searches for the next breed of valuable rookies.

“There’s also going to be an opportunity for them to practice, so our coaches are going to get an opportunity to see these guys, one-on-one and up close during practices. When it gets down to this point, it’s kind of the finer details that make or break it for some of these young guys,” Oakes concluded.

“Last year, the team we put together proved that they were willing to battle hard every day and pull together as a team, and I think that tightknit group was more a secret to our success than anything. Moving forward, our coaches are gonna find guys who consider that team environment and contribute on a daily basis.”

Monday’s exhibition game begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Northern Lights Palace in Melfort. The Mustangs also play Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, twice each against the Nipawin Hawks and Humboldt Broncos.

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Ben.Tompkins@pattisonmedia.com

On X @BenTompkins_8