Athletes of the Week: Lincoln Stars record double hat trick for the first time since 2022

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Two Lincoln Stars shined bright last weekend, with both of them recording a hat trick in the same game for the first time since 2022.

On Dec 28, Matthew Maltais and Jack Pechar each recorded a hat trick in the Stars’ 9-3 win over the Tri-City Storm.

According to the forward duo, it was first a discussion, which then turned into reality

“It’s a pretty good feeling, having one with him. After the 1st (period) we did talk about us having a hat trick together,” said Maltais. “It was crazy for it to actually happen. It was an unreal feeling for us to get one together.”

Both Pechar and Maltais are in their second seasons with the Stars, and this was both of their first hat tricks here in Lincoln.

In fact, it’s the first time a double hat trick was recorded at the Ice Box Arena since Mar. 25, 2022.

“It was kind of one of those nights where everything you throw at the net finds it way in,” said Pechar. “We just did a good job at playing fast, it was just a real special night.”

The stars tied a season high of 9 goals in the win. Since returning from holiday break they’ve won 3 of their last 5 and are 19-12-1 overall.

Both Pechar and Maltais feel confident in the group of guys they have on the ice this year.

“We have a team to make a run this year, and we’re excited for the future,” said Maltais.

“It’s nice to get points early in the year, but we’ve accomplished nothing,” said Pechar. “No one’s satisfied here, and there’s a lot more work to be done.”

Lincoln’s next four games will be played at home at the Ice Box Arena, starting this next Friday night vs USA Hockey’s National Development Team Program.