CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS – The North American Hockey League (NAHL) has announced that IceRays forward Nic LaBurn has been named Easton Hockey NAHL South Division Star of the Week for his three-point performance over the Lone Star Brahmas last weekend. His award is the second top weekly recognition for the IceRays this season.
LaBurn, 20, recorded one goal and two assists in two games last weekend from the American Bank Center, earning one assist in Friday’s 3-2 shootout win as well as one goal and one assist in Saturday’s 5-3 loss. The Northville, Mich., native set up the chance for the IceRays in the third period to tie the game with one minute remaining before the final horn. His efforts on Saturday both came on the forecheck, working to free up a loose puck for forward Frankie Melton to assist the team’s first goal and receiving the return favor from Melton in the second period. This performance comes after missing the last five games due to injury.
“It’s quite an accomplishment for a guy that’s been missing for almost the past month,” said IceRays head coach John Becanic. “It was his first weekend back with very little practice. It’s exciting to see him peaking at just the right time as we’re heading into a tough stretch. Nic is a big part of our lineup and adds to the depth of our team.”
In 36 games this season, LaBurn has recorded 12 goals and 11 assists for 23 points with 42 penalty minutes and a +6 rating. His six power play goals ties him for first on the IceRays with forwards Wes Michaud and Tanner Lomsnes. Three of his 12 goals have been game-winners, which ranks second on the team. LaBurn now has four points over his last five games with two weeks left before his appearance at the 2015 NAHL Top Prospects Tournament, presented by Easton. He was also awarded South 2nd Star of the Week on Nov. 3, 2014.
LaBurn is the second IceRays player to earn South Star of the Week, with Michaud earning that recognition on Nov. 10, 2014 following a five-point performance. In total, the IceRays have earned six weekly awards and two monthly recognitions this season.
The IceRays head back on the road on Friday, Feb. 13 to begin a two-game set against the Amarillo Bulls at 7:05 p.m. from the Amarillo Civic Center. Coverage begins at 6:50 p.m. on SportsRadio Corpus Christi and FASTHockey.com. Call the front office at 361-814-7825 for season and individual ticket details or check out the pricing and seating chart online at www.goicerays.com. Stay current with the latest team news by visiting www.goicerays.com. In addition, stay connected with the IceRays on Facebook (/CorpusChristiIceRays), Twitter (@goicerays), YouTube (IceRays TV), Instagram (CorpusChristiIceRays), and Vine (@goicerays).
