CALGARY, Alta. – The Canadian Junior Hockey League announced Wednesday that Okotoks Oilers (AJHL) forward Rieger Lorenz has been named its Top Rookie Award recipient for the 2021-22 season.
Lorenz earned the accolades over fellow finalists Carson Buydens, (F) Virden Oil Capitals (MJHL); Robbie Rutledge, (F) Hearst Lumberjacks (NOJHL); George Fegaras, (D) North York Rangers (OJHL) and Connor McGrath, (F) Humboldt Broncos (SJHL), following a national voting process completed by each of the nine leagues, that comprise the CJHL.
The 18-year-old Calgary, Alta., product had a tremendous initial campaign in the Alberta Junior Hockey League, leading all first-year skaters there in offensive production with 85 points, on 38 goals and 47 assists.
His efforts saw him set new Oilers’ rookie marks in both tallies and points.
Lorenz’s totals helped him finish fifth overall in AJHL scoring.
A NCAA Division I commitment to the University of Denver, he will attend school there and compete with the Pioneers men’s hockey program, who will enter the 2022-23 season as defending Frozen Four national champions.
Lorenz was also tabbed the CJHL’s highest rated player in the National Hockey League Central Scouting’s final draft rankings, released last week, as he was listed 17th overall, among North American skaters and is a potential first round selection.
The AJHL rookie of the year was named a game star, in league play, on 13 occasions and was selected their player of the month for December.
He also collected league rookie of the week laurels four times.
With files from Charla Flett, V.P., Communications (AJHL)
Photo credit: Chad Goddard Photography