Mason Lohrei's 2024-25 season was a mixed bag, showcasing both immense potential and glaring areas for improvement. As a highly touted prospect, expectations were high when he made the Bruins roster out of training camp. He played a significant role on the team, appearing in 77 games, and demonstrated his offensive capabilities by leading all Bruins defensemen in assists (28) and points (33). His 16 power-play points ranked second among all Bruins skaters, highlighting his effectiveness with the man advantage. He also averaged nearly 20 minutes of ice time per game, indicating the trust the coaching staff placed in him, especially when veterans were sidelined.
However, the underlying numbers revealed some concerning issues in his defensive game. Lohrei finished the season with a league-worst -43 plus-minus rating. While plus-minus isn't always the definitive measure of a player's defensive abilities, it does highlight the challenges he faced in his own zone. His struggles were particularly noticeable when paired with Andrew Peeke; the duo allowed a high number of goals against. While Lohrei boasts a significant frame at 6'5" and 220 lbs, he did not translate this into physical dominance, recording a relatively low number of hits.
Despite these defensive shortcomings, Lohrei's offensive upside remains undeniable. His puck-moving skills, skating ability, and hockey IQ are all impressive. He demonstrated the ability to quarterback a power play and move the puck with confidence. These attributes make him a valuable asset in today's NHL, where mobility and offensive contributions from defensemen are highly prized. The Bruins clearly recognize his potential, as evidenced by their recent decision to sign him to a two-year, $6.4 million contract extension with an annual cap hit of $3.2 million.
This "bridge deal" is a strategic move by the Bruins. It allows them to assess Lohrei's development over the next two seasons without committing to a long-term, high-value contract. For Lohrei, it's an opportunity to prove his worth and potentially earn a more lucrative deal down the road. The contract also provides financial flexibility for the Bruins, allowing them to address other roster needs while still investing in a promising young player.
Looking ahead, Lohrei's development will be crucial for the Bruins. With the retirement of franchise icons like Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci, and with injuries to key players like Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm, the team is undergoing a generational shift. Lohrei is expected to be a key part of the Bruins' future. New head coach Marco Sturm has emphasized player development and adaptability, which bodes well for Lohrei. Sturm's challenge will be to create an environment where Lohrei can thrive, potentially by pairing him with a more defensively sound partner or giving him more opportunities on the power play.
Ultimately, Lohrei's 2024-25 season was a learning experience. The Bruins are betting that he can refine his defensive game while continuing to leverage his offensive talents. If he can successfully address his weaknesses, he has the potential to become a top-four defenseman and a cornerstone of the Bruins' blue line for years to come.
