The Mavericks utilized the portal to add three players to their roster
The Minnesota State (Mankato) Mavericks were one of many teams who utilized the transfer portal this year to add new players.
Coming off a strong season where they finished fourth in the CCHA with a 18-15-4 record, the Mavericks are looking to take another step forward next year.
In adding three new players to the roster through the transfer portal, let's take a look at what each new recruit will add.
Luigi Benincasa
Having recently wrapped up his freshman season at Ferris State, Benincasa transferred to the Mavericks with three years of eligibility left.
With a solid 23 points in 33 games, Benincasa finished second on the team in total points, three behind Antonio Venuto while playing three less games.
Certainly the recruit with the most potential to produce out of the gates, Benincasa should slot into the top-nine as soon as 2024-25. Having proven to able to produce at the NCAA level, Luke Strand and staff will most likely go to Benincasa early on.
Cade Alami
Having just finished his junior season at Arizona State, Alami joins Minnesota State with one year of eligibility remaining.
Having suited up for the Sun Devils and Boston College over the past three seasons, Alami has six assists in 53 career NCAA games.
Standing at a towering 6-foot-7, Alami might not be relied upon for his offense but is more than capable in his own end. Using his long reach, Alami does a good job defending the rush and makes it hard for opponents to beat him in front of the net.
While it is yet to be seen what role he will play, Alami should be able to secure a role and contribute for the Mavericks.
Finlay Williams
A product of North Vancouver, B.C., Williams joins the Mavericks with one season of NCAA experience at Notre Dame.
Having taken a path not too common amongst NCAA players, Williams played a full year at Notre Dame in 2022-23 before going to play in the USHL this past season.
Now committed to Minnesota State, Williams joins the team as a solid depth scoring option. While he only has two points in 22 career games, Williams has proven to be able to produce at the junior level.
If Strand and the coaching staff entrust him with ice time, he could be one to watch.
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