The SJHL Playoffs for the 2025-2026 season are set to commence on March 20, with the Melfort Mustangs and Nipawin Hawks securing their spots alongside the Flin Flon Bombers from the UPL Division.
The Nipawin Hawks concluded the regular season with an impressive record of 35-19-1-1, earning them 72 points. The Melfort Mustangs finished closely behind in third place in the UPL Division, posting a record of 30-22-2-2 and accumulating 64 points.
The playoffs will feature the top-seeded Flin Flon Bombers, who achieved a remarkable record of 41-11-3-1, facing off against the eighth-seeded Estevan Bruins. Meanwhile, the second-seeded Yorkton Terriers will take on their rivals, the Melville Millionaires.
In their final regular season home game, the Mustangs secured a decisive 6-1 victory over the Estevan Bruins, showcasing their readiness for the upcoming playoffs.
Josh Kotai, a standout player who was named the SJHL’s SaskTel Goaltender of the Year in the 2022-23 season, recently signed a two-year entry-level contract with the New York Islanders. Kotai has a playoff record of 12-1 and has made 78 appearances in NCAA games, highlighting his significant contributions to the league.
Kyle McIntyre, a prominent figure in the league, remarked, “It’s the most exciting weekend of the season,” emphasizing the anticipation surrounding the playoffs. He also noted, “We really did not see anything decided in our season,” indicating the competitive nature of the league.
As the playoffs approach, observers are eager to see how the teams will perform, particularly the Hawks and Mustangs, who have shown strong potential throughout the season. The Ice Wolves, having completed their first season at the Jonas Roberts Memorial Community Centre, will also be a team to watch.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute changes to the playoff schedule or team rosters as the opening date draws near.
