2019-20 Year-End Awards: Orland Kurtenbach Award as Most Valuable Player Presented By Lake Country Co-op
Prince Albert, SK – The Prince Albert Raiders are proud to announce the winners of the Orland Kurtenbach Award as Most Valuable Player Presented By Lake Country Co-op are Zack Hayes and Aliaksei Protas.
Hayes returned to the Raiders following his time with the Anaheim Ducks at training camp. He was named captain shortly after and played a pivotal role on the blueline, the penalty kill, and some time on the power play.
The Calgary product suited up in 60 games during his final WHL season, scoring a career-best seven goals and adding 16 assists. He and Protas both had a plus-37 rating for the season to lead the club.
Hayes also claimed the Players Choice Award Presented By Prince Albert Source For Sports and was a co-recipient of the Jim Neilson Award as Most Valuable Defenceman Presented By North Star Signs.
Earlier this month, he signed an AHL contract with the Vegas Golden Knights’ organization for the 2020-21 season.
Protas, a Washington Capitals prospect, led the Raiders in goals (31), assists (49), and points (80) to win the Dave Balon Leading Scorer Award Presented By Northern Lights Casino. He also topped the East Division in points. His 24 points on the power play were second on the team.
The sophomore from Vitebsk, Belarus saw ice time in all situations this season, pacing the team with two shorthanded goals.
Protas signed his entry-level contract with the Capitals in the summer. He was chosen by Washington in the third round of the 2019 NHL Draft.
Last Five Winners of the Orland Kurtenbach Award as Most Valuable Player
- 2018-19: Ian Scott
- 2017-18: Jordy Stallard
- 2016-17: Tim Vanstone
- 2015-16: Reid Gardiner and Rylan Parenteau
- 2014-15: Reid Gardiner
