ICE HOCKEY: DANNY Stewart has boosted his forward line option by adding Canadian forward Ben Lake to his 2017/18 Coventry Blaze roster.
The 27-year-old, who can play wing or centre, joins Blaze following two seasons in the ECHL with Alaska Aces.
His appearances for the Aces meant he skated with other Blaze newbie Dax Lauwers.
Lake has amassed 136 games with the Aces, registering 46 points and 161 penalty minutes – including 11 fighting majors.
Before turning professional, the 5’11” left shooter iced 138 times for Sacred Heart University of the NCAA – picking up 61 points.
In his senior year, the Calgary native was named associate captain and led the Atlantic Conference for short-handed goals.
Blaze coach Stewart said: “Ben is a guy who has a tremendous amount of intangibles to his game that will make him a very valuable player for us.
“He’s another player that’s tough to play against.
“He’s a tremendous skater that plays with a lot of grit.
“He will improve our fore-check this year and he’s another guy that plays a 200-foot-game.
“His ability to play all three forward positions is another valuable asset for us and creates movement throughout our line-up when required.
“Through the couple of coaches that I have spoken to about him, it was clear that his best years are ahead of him and I feel Ben has plenty of upside to contribute offensively as well.
“We’re really happy to have him on board.”
Lake said he’s excited to have signed for his first European team and admits it’s been something he’s wanted to do for his entire hockey career.
He added: “Both my parents are from England.
“I feel Coventry will be the perfect landing spot for me.
“I had a few other offers in the league but speaking with Danny I felt he really wanted me to be apart of the team this year.
“As a player you want to go somewhere where you feel wanted.
“I’ve also heard great things about the organisation as well as the fans which also factored into my decision.
“In terms of playing style I would describe myself as a two-way forward who can play any anywhere in the line-up.
“I feel I can bring a fair amount of grit and tenacity in the defensive zone and offensive zone as well as chipping in offensively when called upon.”
