Lohrei Has Sights Set High

2023 Boston Bruins Development Camp is presented by Mass General Brigham

BOSTON - Mason Lohrei has his sights set on the big club.

The 22-year-old, who was the Bruins' top pick (58th overall) in 2020, is aiming to put himself in the best position possible this summer to crack Boston's roster at some point in 2023-24.

"Exactly, that's my goal," Lohrei said on Monday afternoon following the opening day of Development Camp at Warrior Ice Arena. "That's why I'm here. I'm just checking off the boxes this summer to improve my game and to give myself the best shot come training camp to make the big club."

Lohrei made the transition from Ohio State to Providence this past spring when he joined the P-Bruins for five regular-season games and another three playoff contests. The 6-foot-5, 215-pound blue liner said that while his time at the pro level was brief, the strength and speed of the players around him was clear.

"It's just a lot heavier, I'd say that was the main difference from college," said Lohrei, who is approaching his first full pro campaign in the fall. "Obviously, faster, but just heavier. I'm still working on getting stronger and improving my speed and my first three steps, that sort of thing. I think that's going to be beneficial going into next season."

Bruins player development coordinator Adam McQuaid, a former defenseman himself, has kept close tabs on Lohrei over the past few years and believes that more time at the pro level is going to be crucial to the Wisconsin native's growth.

"Well, you see it right away, his size and his mobility at that size, his offensive instincts," said McQuaid. "I think his defending has come a long way. I think when he is simplifying his game, he can be really efficient and when he has the opportunities on the offensive side, he can make plays. Continuing to walk the line and learning when to manage the puck properly are probably things he's still learning.

"But we're just really excited about him turning pro. I think it'll be a good opportunity for him to get some pro games in Providence, and this should give him a leg up, obviously, this week and in training camp in September."

Lohrei did not hit the ice during last summer's development camp as he recovered from a knee procedure, but with this being his third trip to the July showcase, he feels that he's established a strong comfort level with those around him.

"Yeah, obviously it was awesome to be out there with all of these guys after watching last year," said Lohrei. "A lot of fun to interact and just have that aspect of learning on the ice stuff.

"I think the biggest thing has been relationships and becoming more comfortable with everybody and, obviously, that opens up new pathways to learn more things from everyone."

One of the most important relationships that Lohrei has molded within the organization is with McQuaid, who made a number of trips to Columbus to visit with the blue liner during his time with the Buckeyes.

"It's been unreal…to just be able to be on the ice today with Adam," said Lohrei. "Quaider is just so knowledgeable about the game and just picking out little things to teach me and help me improve. It's been great just to be here - and that goes with everyone, too, all the trainers and everything."

Lohrei said that throughout his second and final season with Ohio State, during which he tallied 32 points (four goals, 28 assists) in 40 games, he tried to do his best to advance himself off the ice.

"I think just taking on a leadership role, bigger roll, and trying to do everything right in my second year," Lohrei said of how he evolved from his freshman to sophomore season. "Obviously, we had a pretty good team and just trying to lead guys and lead by example and help us win games was the biggest thing."

On the ice, Lohrei said that his focus has been on his speed and quickness, as well as his overall strength.

"Those first three steps…speed is going to help with defending and then even offensive stuff like separation," said Lohrei. "My shot, just getting a heavier and quicker shot and then just being stronger, being stronger in defensive areas…those are the biggest things."

McQuaid added that Lohrei also has room to improve when it comes to his puck movement.

"Just moving the puck a little quicker," said McQuaid. "Things happen quicker, and he likes to have the puck on his stick, which is not a bad thing because he can make things happen - and they are usually good things - but at the same time, there is a time and a place for that.

"So, just getting up to speed with the pro level. I would be surprised if he doesn't make a real push at training camp. We're hoping for that, but like any young player he still has things to work on.

"He's a fast learner, he's going to pick up on things and continue to grow."

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