The newest forward for the Red Deer Rebels, Michael Mikan, expressed his enthusiasm for contributing to the team”s playoff aspirations. Earlier this month, the Western Hockey League franchise announced that Mikan had signed a WHL Scholarship and Development Agreement. The Edina, Minnesota native made his debut with the Rebels on January 31 during a match against the Victoria Royals as part of the team”s road trip in British Columbia.
Before joining the Rebels, Mikan showcased his talents with the Okotoks Oilers in the British Columbia Hockey League, where he recorded 29 points in 30 games. He also participated in the BCHL All-Star Game, representing Team World. “I got back from the All-Star Game, got back to practicing and getting ready for our next game,” Mikan recounted on February 11. “Then I got a call from Brent Sutter (Rebels owner, president, and general manager) asking if I wanted to join the team. I couldn”t turn down the opportunity.”
Mikan noted that the transition to his new team has been seamless. “Everyone here has been super welcoming. My teammates are really good guys, so I”ve acclimated really well right away,” he said. He acknowledged the faster pace of play in the WHL, highlighting the caliber of competition. “It”s a much faster pace here in the WHL. There are some really good players, like we saw against Everett on February 10. It”s pretty cool to play against them. It”s a lot of fun.”
Looking ahead, Mikan has committed to playing collegiate hockey at Harvard. He plans to spend another season in the WHL before making the transition to the NCAA. “I was super excited to get the opportunity to play in this league. So many great players have come from the WHL,” he stated.
Mikan describes himself as “a 200-foot player,” emphasizing his playing style. “I make simple plays, but I try to be creative too and drive some offense.” As the Rebels currently sit in eighth place in the WHL”s Eastern Conference, Mikan is focused on helping the team secure a playoff spot. With fewer than 20 regular season games remaining, he recognizes the importance of each match. “Every game from now on is very important. We want to make the playoffs. I”m going to keep working and do whatever I can to make the playoffs,” he affirmed. The Rebels hold a three-point lead over the Regina Pats for the final playoff spot in the East, although Regina has played two fewer games.
