Bobcats Complete Trade with Warriors

The Bismarck Bobcats have completed a trade with the Oklahoma Warriors sending Forward Ben Osiashvili and Defenseman Mathias Kristiansen to the Warriors in exchange for Forward Ben Likness. 

Osiashvili, an ‘06 birth year and Colorado College commit, was in his first year with the Bobcats. In 29 games with Bismarck, Osiashvili found the back of the net 5 times to go along with 8 assists for a total of 13 points. Osiashvili mentioned how much he enjoyed his time in Bismarck. “I had an amazing and unforgettable experience in Bismarck, with a great group of guys.”

Kristiansen, an ‘06 birth year, was also in his first season with the Bobcats. In 24 appearances, Kristiansen notched 1 goal and added 1 assist for a total of 2 points. This was the first experience for Kristiansen playing hockey outside of Norway & Europe. “I had an amazing time in Bismarck getting to know my teammates and I got to live with an amazing family, Kristiansen noted.”

Bobcats General Manager and Director of Scouting Niko Kapetanovic mentioned his gratitude for the two players’ contributions during their time with the Bobcats “We want to thank Osh and Kristiansen for everything they have done for the Bobcats. Both of them are incredible players who are going to do very well in Oklahoma with an expanded role and help that team day in and day out. I am fully confident in that.”

Coming back to the Bobcats for his second stint with the team is Forward Ben Likness. Likness previously played 7 games for the Bobcats and has been with the Oklahoma Warriors for the majority of the last two seasons. This year Likness has appeared in 33 games for the Warriors and potted 13 goals along with 15 assists for 28 points. 

Bobcats General Manager and Director of Scouting Niko Kapetanovic talked about what Likness will add to this Bobcat team to help push in the 2nd half and beyond. “We are excited to welcome back Ben Likness to the Bobcats. Ben has continued to develop into the player we knew he would when we first tendered him prior to last season. Getting him back to Bismarck is something we as a staff are fortunate for. His skating ability, shot, and experience will be very helpful down the stretch in our goal to win the Central Division and to move onto the Robertson Cup Playoffs.”

The Bismarck Bobcats are back in action this weekend on home ice to take on the Watertown Shamrocks! Tickets are still available, be sure to head over to tickets.bismarckbobcats.com to secure your seats before they’re all gone!