I really don't see the benefit of adding Mankato. I acknowledge that it's a great program, but we already have two Minnesota teams. If we were to expand it should either be a d1 school, or a school that is in geographical proximity to Miami and Western Michigan. Planning for future opportunities, Mankato does nothing to make a start up FBS-type school want to join our conference.
Additionally, I would a assume that Mankato is important for the stability of the WCHA, and what is good for the stability of the WCHA is good for us.