Huskies’ Goalie Room Gets Crowded as Maier Returns to the Fold
It’s not often you see a goaltending situation this stacked at the university level, but the Saskatchewan Huskies find themselves with an embarrassment of riches between the pipes-and a few tough choices ahead.
Nolan Maier is back. After a stint in the pros, the former WHL standout has returned to the Huskies, embracing a second chance at college hockey.
“I was committed for a time, but the way things worked out, I had an opportunity to go play pro and I took it,” Maier said. “All roads lead back home, so here I am.
I’m excited that I’m a part of it.”
His return adds another layer to an already intriguing goaltending dynamic for the Huskies, who are gearing up for a pivotal weekend set against the University of Calgary Dinos-Friday night at 7 p.m., followed by a Saturday tilt at 5 p.m., both at Merlis Belsher Place.
Maier’s not the only netminder with pro experience in the locker room. First-year goalie Bryan Thomson, also coming off a professional stint, is in the mix.
And then there’s Jordan Kooy, a fifth-year veteran and former Vegas Golden Knights draft pick, wrapping up his collegiate career. Earlier this season, rookie James Venne also saw time on the roster.
That’s four goaltenders with legitimate credentials-each bringing something different to the table. It’s a crowded crease, no doubt, and with playoff implications looming, the stakes for playing time are only getting higher.
Still, head coach Brandin Cote isn’t losing sleep over it. “It’s a good problem to have,” he said.
And he’s right. Depth at goaltender can be a game-changer, especially in the postseason grind where injuries, fatigue, and momentum swings can turn a series on its head. Having multiple capable options gives the Huskies flexibility-and a bit of a safety net.
But it also means someone’s going to be watching from the bench. That’s where the coaching staff will have to make some tough calls, balancing experience, current form, and team chemistry as they navigate the stretch run.
For now, the focus is on Calgary. The Dinos are no pushover, and these games could go a long way in shaping the playoff picture. Whether it’s Maier, Thomson, Kooy, or someone else getting the nod, the Huskies know they’ve got a solid last line of defense-no matter who’s in the crease.