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Saleski camping out in P.A., Mintos now, Raiders later

Aug 18, 2018 | 4:16 PM

Regardless of what happens this fall, Cohner Saleski is going to be playing hockey in Prince Albert.

The big question is, at what level?

The Prince Albert Raiders selected forward Saleski in the first round, 17th overall in the 2017 WHL Bantam Draft. That makes Saleski eligible to play a full season with the Raiders as a 16-year-old this year.

But failing that, Saleski will play Midget AAA hockey with the Prince Albert Mintos this season. He was released by the Saskatoon Contacts, with whom he played Midget AAA for last year, in order to punch his ticket to PAradise.

“I’m excited knowing that no matter what, I’m going to be here in P.A.,” Saleski said. “It’s pretty much where I’m going to be hopefully for my future. It’s good to get my head in the door and see what this place has to offer.”

Although the Raiders took him in the first round, along with first overall pick Kaiden Guhle, Saleski is not a guarantee to make the Raiders.

Last year with the Contacts, Saleski’s season was hampered by various stints on the injured list. He was limited to just 24 games in the 44-game regular season, scoring five goals and 15 points. He didn’t play a game at all after Jan. 18 and missed out on the playoff series against the Mintos.

Saleski’s appearance with Team Saskatchewan at the WHL Cup was also in jeopardy with his early season ailments as well, as he was left off the initial roster but made the squad as a late addition when his health improved. That turned out to be a good thing for both parties as Saleski had a goal and two helpers in five games for Team Sask.

“It was a lot of ups and downs—a lot to think about. I think got mentally stronger from it, because it was draining,” Saleski said. “I had to try and stay positive—think about the positives. One of those would be playing at the WHL Cup with Team Sask. Hopefully, I can build off of where I left off. I feel like I’m better from it.”

But after getting healthy in the offseason and preparing physically during the summer, Saleski is ready to jump right in. He said he’s never felt better.

“I feel strong. I’ve been working out lots, I’ve done Pro Sport [Rehab and Fitness] and everything, skating lots, and I feel like I’m better than I ever have been.”

The Mintos have three more scrimmages remaining: one on Saturday at 8:15 p.m., as well as another pair on Sunday at 11 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.

The Raiders will have their WHL camp from August 25-28, with the Green and White game happening on Aug. 28 at 6 p.m.

 

Jeff.dandrea@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @jeff_paNOW