CANADIAN forward Ben Lake has returned to the Genting Casino Coventry Blaze for their 2018/19 Elite League roster.
The 27-year-old, who spent two years with the Alaska Aces of the East Coast Hockey League prior to joining the Blaze, had his most productive professional season over 2017/18, registering 18 goals, 15 assists for 33 points in 55 Elite League regular season games.
In his third year as pro, he also added three assists in six Challenge Cup games, with a further goal and helper in the two PredictorBet play-off games against Cardiff Devils.
Whilst in Alaska, the 5ft 11in left shooter amassed 136 games with the Aces, producing 46 points (16 goals, 30 assists).
The Calgary native was also named associate captain and, as a crucial part of the penalty-kill, led the Atlantic Conference for short-handed goals.
“I’m really excited to be re-signing with the club,” said Lake.
“Any player just wants that opportunity to play regularly and help their team night in, night out and luckily Danny (Stewart – head coach) and the coaching staff have given me that opportunity to play in all situations here.
“I think if we’re able to replicate our end of season form into a full season then we’ll be up there challenging for silverware.
“I can’t wait for another season in front of the Blaze fans.”
Head coach Stewart added: “Lake was one of our priorities to get signed back.
“We saw that grit and speed that we were expecting all season, but he also showed he can find the back of the net.
“Eighteen goals is a great mark for his first year in this league.
“His ability to play all three forward positions and play them well is another asset and one that proved important for us down the stretch.”