Mason Lohrei Opened Up With A Strong Statement About Playing Next To Bruins Defenseman

Mason Lohrei played 41 games for the Bruins during the regular season. The teenage defenseman recorded four goals and nine assists in 16:57 of ice time.

As he progressed through his first NHL season, the Louisiana native was most impressed by playing alongside Charlie McAvoy.

“I was telling him the other day that every time I look up at the board and see my name next to his, I have to pinch myself still,” Lohrei told The Hockey News’ Belle Fraser. “He’s an amazing player…””I’ve taken so much from his game.”

McAvoy laughed when he was asked about the exchange.

“That seemed strange when he was saying it. “It made me feel older,” McAvoy told reporters. “I don’t view myself that way. I feel like a kid out there having fun. I feel the same way while I’m playing with him or observing what he’s doing.

“I had a wonderful time playing with him. He works quite hard. His foundation is excellent. He works every day, and I can’t wait to watch his progress. I keep telling him that the sky is the limit for him. I see where he can go, and it’s incredible for us to watch the progress he can make. Seeing him grow into his own… I’m delighted to be there for him and help him in any way I can. I’m looking forward to the relationship that we’ll develop.”

Lohrei, 23, was called up by Providence for the playoffs due to his hard work and good play in all three zones.

Lohrei appeared in eleven of the Bruins’ thirteen postseason games. He recorded one goal and three assists. He had 14 shots on goal, 17 blocks, and 12 hits in 17:12 minutes of ice time.

The postseason boosted Lohrei’s confidence within the Bruins organization.

“Yes, it has been great. “I was just telling my parents that the playoff run we had has been the most fun I’ve had playing hockey,” Lohrei told media at Bruins breakup day at Warrior Ice Arena, according to a team transcript. “Being able to come in, jump into a role, and run with it boosts confidence heading into the summer. It really motivates me to keep going.”

As McAvoy said, the sky is the limit for Lohrei and his play in the playoffs will probably earn him a spot on the roster in September.