They're the dangermen, watched closely every time they take to the ice. The enemy of netminders, the lighters of lamps, and most often the wearers of the coveted "LGT Top Scorer" jersey. These forwards are the go-to-men on their teams when points need to be delivered, and games have to be won. Here's a look at some of the top forwards who have made their presence on the ice felt during the first four Game Days of the 2022/23 season of the Champions Hockey League.
Rikard Hugg - Skellefteå AIK
With one point separating the two top sides in Group H, Skellefteå AIK are a smidge away from catching HC Davos, and Rikard Hugg has been at the forefront leading the offensive charge. To date, the 23-year-old has netted eight points (6G, 2A) to combine for a +7 plus/minus overall after four games. Hugg, a native of Sweden netted two goals in Skellefteå's last game, a 5-2 win over Davos.
Ben Street - Red Bull Munich
With Playoffs qualification to their name in Group C, Red Bull Munich have had an ideal start to their CHL season winning all four of their games so far. Forward Ben Street has had a huge presence for the side netting eight points (6G, 2A) so far.
The Canadian-born is in his second season with Munich and is a special breed. Some might say the ideal fantasy player, clocking hits, blocking shots, and netting powerplay goals. With a +8 plus/minus rating, and a faceoff win percentage of 69.05% it doesn't look like there's much that Street can't do.
Zach Boychuk - Eisbären Berlin
Eisbären Berlin have had a tough time in Group G, splitting games with two wins and two losses. Despite their third ranked status, Zach Boychuk has made impressive headway on the scoring front. The 33-year-old forward has potted eight points (5G, 3A) in four games.
The Canadian native, who is also in his second season with Berlin, currently sits on a +4 plus/minus rating, and much like Street has been solid off the faceoffs with a win percentage of 40.70%.
Isac Brännström - Luleå Hockey
Luleå Hockey stormed Group A, qualifying with a four-game winning streak. Their success and dominance was helped by 24-year-old forward Isac Brännström. Like his peers, the native of Sweden has been solid across the board scoring eight points (4G, 4A) to combine for a +6 plus/minus overall after four games.
Off the draw he's also been stellar with 66.67%, in addition to having a squeaky clean record for penalties. Brännström posted a phenomenal game against Jukurit Mikkeli, where he netted a hattrick as well as the game winning goal.
Ryan Lasch - Frölunda Gothenburg
This legendary player needs no introduction, he topped the CHL for points in 2018/19, 2019/20, and 2021/22. Currently sitting on equal points with Mountfield FK, Frölunda Gothenburg have taken three wins, and narrowly lost a fourth.
Stalwart forward Ryan Lasch has recorded eight points (2G, 6A) in four games. The American-born is in his sixth CHL season with Frölunda and holds an impeccable record, netting double-digit points over his last four campaigns.
Be sure to return later on in the week for more Top Five articles ahead of Game Days 5&6 and follow our social media channels to keep up on all the latest news in the CHL!