Oilers Recognized in CHL's Best-Of-The-Best Poll
March 19, 2014 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Tulsa Oilers News Release
TULSA, OK - The Central Hockey League announced today the results of its annual "Best-of-the-Best" poll and the Tulsa Oilers received recognition in several categories.
Tulsa center Kyle Bochek was selected by his peers as the "Best Bodychecker" in the CHL. Bochek, in his first season as an Oiler, is known around the league for his physical, aggressive style of the play. The 26-year old ranks third in the CHL with 171 penalty minutes and has recorded 49 points (15 goals, 34 assists) in 54 games this season. Bochek got the nod as the league's most proficient hitter over Colt King of the Missouri Mavericks and Trevor Hendrikx of the Allen Americans.
Oilers point-leader Ben Gordon finished second in the voting for "Best Overall Player" behind Denver's Garrett Bembridge and was also second to Bembridge in the category of "Player Judged Most Valuable To His Team." Gordon leads Tulsa with 35 goals and stands fourth in the CHL scoring race with 83 points.
Ryan Menei was also recognized for his offensive skills, taking second place honors for "Best Playmaker" and third place in the "Best Stickhandler" category. Menei led the Oilers in goals last season but this year the Winnipeg native has turned into Tulsa's premier set-up man, dishing out 38 assists in 45 games.
In the "Best Player on Face-Offs" section, Tulsa's Todd Robinson took second place behind Jason Morgan of Arizona. Morgan edged Robinson by just a single point in the overall voting. Despite missing 17 games with a lower-body injury, Robinson still ranks ninth in the CHL with 63 points and leads the Oilers with 50 assists.
Adam Pleskach was second in the voting for "Best Rookie" behind Allen's Alex Lavoie. Pleskach, one of five finalists for the "Rookie of the Year" award, leads all first-year players with 30 goals and is second in rookie scoring with 55 points.
The BOK Center, widely regarded as one of the top venues in minor league hockey, was voted second in "Best Arena" and second for "Best Locker Rooms." The Tulsa Oilers Ice Girls earned a second place selection for "Best Cheerleaders/Dance Team" and Rob Loeber was selected second for "Best Broadcaster."
Overall, the Oilers finished in first place in two categories, second place in nine categories, and took home third place in one category. The Missouri Mavericks led all CHL teams with 13 first-place selections, six more than any other franchise.
For a list of complete results in the 2013-14 Best-of-the-Best poll, please visit www.centralhockeyleague.com. To view complete coverage of these awards, log on to www.minorleaguehockeyreport.com.
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