Boston Bruins general manager Don Sweeney wasted no time in bolstering his roster as free agency kicked off a few weeks ago. In a swift move, Sweeney was able to secure centre Elias Lindholm and defenceman Nikita Zadorov, addressing some crucial needs for the team. These veteran additions are sure to make a significant impact, but the Bruins will also be looking towards their younger players to step up and play key roles under head coach Jim Montgomery.
One player who made a notable impact last season and is expected to take on a more prominent role in the upcoming 2024-25 season is defenceman Mason Lohrei. With the departures of Matt Grzelcyk, Derek Forbort, and Kevin Shattenkirk, Lohrei now has a clear path to a regular spot in the lineup. After showing progress and potential in his rookie season, Lohrei is poised for a breakout year. His size, skill, and work ethic make him a prime candidate to become a game-changing defenceman in the NHL. Expect to see Lohrei play a larger role and get more opportunities on special teams as he continues to adjust to the pace of the NHL.
Lohrei, a former standout at Ohio State University, has been turning heads with his impressive play on both ends of the ice. Standing at a towering 6-foot-5 and weighing 211 pounds, Lohrei played a solid 16:57 minutes per game in 41 regular-season contests, notching four goals and 13 points. During the playoffs, he scored his first postseason goal against the Florida Panthers while averaging over 17 minutes of ice time per game.
The buzz surrounding Lohrei is well-deserved, as he has shown a strong determination to improve and make his mark in the NHL. Teammates like Charlie McAvoy, David Pastrnak, and Hampus Lindholm have all praised his growth and development throughout the season. It will be exciting to see how Lohrei continues to progress and contribute to the Bruins’ success moving forward.
With his potential on full display, Mason Lohrei is a player to watch as he looks to solidify his place in the Bruins’ lineup and make a name for himself in the NHL. The upcoming season promises to be an exciting one for the young defenceman, and fans can’t wait to see what he’ll bring to the table. The future looks bright for Lohrei, and it’s clear that he is ready to seize the opportunities that lie ahead.