×

LaPinta’s chase for history continues

Sean Williams/MDN Chase LaPinta (26) of the Minot Minotauros has scored a goal in ten consecutive games, setting a new franchise record, and inching closer to the all-time NAHL record.

It’s been a historic rookie season for Chase LaPinta, who joined the Minot Minotauros for the first time in 2022-23. The overall success and current run that LaPinta is on is not something you see every year.

Playing in the Magic City and in front of the home fans has helped make his season feel even more exciting, aside from the success that he has built on the ice.

“It’s been pretty unreal. We have a really good community here, really good fanbase and it just makes it really fun playing,” LaPinta tells The Minot Daily News.

The Arizona State University commit, however, is doing much more than having fun on the ice. He’s in the middle of a historic goal scoring run. Dating back to Dec. 3, LaPinta has scored a goal in 10 consecutive games, setting a new franchise record for the Minotauros.

Previously, the record was held by Dan Russell when he scored a goal in six consecutive games during the 2020 season. LaPinta has surpassed that and then some, as he looks to keep rewriting the record books.

“It’s been fun. I’ve had a lot of help with teammates and them getting me the touches that I need,” LaPinta shared regarding what it’s like making history through his eyes.

Seeing his name stand alone in the Tauros’ record book is something that means a lot to LaPinta and is an accomplishment he feels very proud of.

“It’s super special. I think it’s cool to come in and leave your mark on a place.”

During the 10-game stretch LaPinta has scored 12 goals, including a hat trick in their last game against the St. Cloud Norsemen, and added five assists for a total of 17 points.

Now with season totals of 18 goals and 13 assists for 31 points, LaPinta ranks fifth overall in goals and tenth in points among all skaters in the North American Hockey League (NAHL).

Among NAHL rookies, LaPinta ranks first in goals, points, and points per game average by putting forth 1.03 points on a nightly basis.

With one franchise record already broken, LaPinta is moving closer to another piece of history and this one involves a much larger sample size.

During the 2005-06 season, Josh Heidinger of the Bozeman IceDogs found the back of the net in 11 consecutive games which currently stands as the all-time NAHL record.

Needing one goal in the next game to tie the all-time NAHL record, LaPinta shared that he is feeling a wide range of emotions associated with having the opportunity to continue doing something extraordinary.

“It’s definitely nerve wrecking, but also kind of exciting. It really gives you something to shoot for during the games,” he said.

Although LaPinta is on a scorching hot streak from an individual standpoint, he believes that his teammates and the coaching staff have helped him make it to the position he’s in today.

“A lot of hard work and a lot of help from teammates just being there for me and helping me out through all of the moments this year,” LaPinta said he attributes to his success.

On Friday, Tauros fans will have the chance to potentially witness a piece of history as the Tauros will be at home, hosting the Aberdeen Wings at 7:35 p.m. for the start of a two-game series at the Maysa Arena.

The series will conclude at the same time and same place on Saturday, and if LaPinta is able to score in both games he will then see his name and his name only written next to an all-time NAHL record.

Regardless of the outcome, the current run of Chase LaPinta has been remarkable, and fans should come out to show support of him and the team.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today