Boston Bruins defenseman Mason Lohrei had a solid first full professional hockey season in 2023-24. The Baton Rouge, Louisiana native was magnificent for the Providence Bruins, recording one goal and 16 points in 21 games. His strong AHL play provided him the chance to play a nice chunk of the campaign in the NHL as well.

Lohrei showed promise while with Boston this past season, posting four goals and 13 points in 41 games. While he naturally made some rookie mistakes, he proved he can produce offense from the point and belongs in the NHL.

Yet, Lohrei truly cemented a place for himself during the Bruins’ playoff run. He played in 11 postseason games for Boston, where he had a goal, four points, and an even rating. He showed great composure during the most challenging time of the hockey season, and it is hard not to feel optimistic about what he will do in 2024-25 because of it.

With the Bruins moving on from Matt Grzelcyk, Derek Forbort, and Kevin Shattenkirk, Lohrei has a clear spot in the club’s lineup next season. Because of this and Lohrei showing clear improvement as last season continued, there’s reason to believe he is a breakout candidate.

Lohrei has the tools to be an impactful two-way defenseman in the NHL, and it will be fun to see what he can do next season. Expect him to have a more significant role and get more chances on both of their special-team units. Now that he is entering next season more adjusted to the NHL, it should be a big year for the 2020 second-round pick.