Babinski and Hafner Will Return to Aces for 2016-17
Published on July 13, 2016 under ECHL (ECHL)
Alaska Aces News Release
ANCHORAGE, ALASKA - The Alaska Aces, proud affiliates of the NHL's Vancouver Canucks and AHL's Utica Comets, have signed forward Kenny Babinski and goaltender Lukas Hafner to contracts for the 2016-17 season.
Head Coach and President of Hockey Operations Rob Murray made the announcement Wednesday.
Babinski, 23, joined the Aces late in the 2015-16 season after completing his NCAA college eligibility at Ferris State University. The 5-10, 180 pound center, a native of Midland, Michigan, played in 5 games for the Glacier Blue, dishing 2 assists.
"Kenny skates well, has a good shot and can make plays," said Murray. "His play in a limited time-frame was encouraging and we wanted him to come back to continue that upward trend."
The 24 year old Hafner, like Babinski, joined the Aces late last season. After completing his NCAA college eligibility at Western Michigan University, the 6-0, 205 pounder played in 5 games for Alaska, fashioning a 2-2-0 record with a 2.96 GAA and save percentage at 90%. The Toledo, Ohio native also recorded his first professional shutout, a 34 save effort in a 2-0 win at home against the Colorado Eagles April 8, 2016.
"I love Lukas' passion for the game of hockey," said Murray. "He plays an aggressive, confident game and holds himself accountable for his performance. We're excited to have him back."
Babinski and Hafner join forward Peter Sivak and defensemen Brandon Martell and Nick Cecere as announced signings by the Aces for the 2016-17 season.
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