Like so many stories that involve Minnesota hockey or Minnesota politics, or both, this one starts at Mancini’s — the legendary steakhouse on West Seventh Street that is roughly equidistant from Xcel Energy Center and the State Capitol.

Davie Carle was an assistant coach with the University of Denver, and the Pioneers were having a team meal there one year in March, before playing in the NCHC Frozen Faceoff. A Minnesota politician ambled over to their table and introduced himself, sharing with the players that he knew a little about Denver hockey.