The SJHL playoffs are set to kick off on March 20, 2026, featuring the Melfort Mustangs and Nipawin Hawks, who have both secured their spots in the postseason. The Hawks concluded the regular season with an impressive record of 35-19-1-1, earning 72 points, while the Mustangs finished third in the UPL Division with a record of 30-22-2-2 and 64 points.
The top-seeded Flin Flon Bombers, boasting a remarkable playoff record of 41-11-3-1, will face the eighth-seeded Estevan Bruins. Meanwhile, the second-seeded Yorkton Terriers are set to clash with their rivals, the Melville Millionaires. This year’s playoffs promise to be thrilling, as teams vie for the championship title.
In their final regular season game, the Mustangs secured a decisive 6-1 victory over the Estevan Bruins, showcasing their readiness for the playoffs. Kyle McIntyre, head coach of the Nipawin Hawks, expressed his excitement, stating, “It’s the most exciting weekend of the season.” He noted that the competition remains fierce, adding, “We really did not see anything decided in our season.”
This season also marked a significant milestone for the La Ronge Ice Wolves, who completed their first season at the Jonas Roberts Memorial Community Centre. The Ice Wolves’ performance has been a positive development for the league, with McIntyre commenting, “I think it’s been a real positive move.”
In addition to the playoff excitement, Josh Kotai, a standout player, recently signed a two-year entry-level contract with the New York Islanders. Kotai was recognized as the SJHL’s SaskTel Goaltender of the Year for the 2022-23 season, and he has a playoff record of 12-1 along with 78 NCAA appearances.
As the playoffs approach, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the teams will perform under pressure. The matchups are set, and the anticipation is building for what promises to be an exhilarating playoff season in the SJHL.
