Nov. 23, 2009

UMass Lowell hockey senior Chris Auger (Belleville, Ont.) was named the Hockey East Player of the Week after scoring a goal and four assists for a career-high five points in the River Hawks' 6-3 win over Merrimack on Saturday night.

The honor marks the second time UMass Lowell has received the recognition this season; Nick Schaus (Buffalo, NY) was named Co-Hockey East Player of the Week on Nov. 9.

Auger was electric in the rivalry victory, having a hand in five-of-six UMass Lowell goals, including all three first period scores. Even more impressive was that Auger was the primary assist each time, due to an outstanding effort of the forecheck and some well placed shots at the point.

A sixth round pick (169th overall) by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, Auger is currently tied for fourth on the River Hawks with 10 points on three goals and seven assists. He also set new career-highs for assists and points in a game.

Auger and the third-ranked UMass Lowell River Hawks (8-2-1, 4-1-1 HE) now turn their attention to Providence on Tuesday night at 7 p.m. in the Schneider Arena. Following the clash with the Friars, UMass Lowell will host the Maine Black Bears on Friday; also scheduled for 7 p.m. Tickets are still available in person at the Tsongas Arena box office or by calling Ticketmaster at (617) 931-2222.