NHL

NHL News: Marco Sturm, Bruins enter new era with key extension for blueliner of the future in Boston

Shortly after announcing the franchise's new logo, the Boston Bruins boosted Marco Sturm's roster by extending one defenseman's contract ahead of the 2025-26 NHL season.

Mason Lohrei #6 of the Boston Bruins looks on during the first period of the game against the Florida Panthers at TD Garden on October 14, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts.
Ā© Maddie Meyer/Getty ImagesMason Lohrei #6 of the Boston Bruins looks on during the first period of the game against the Florida Panthers at TD Garden on October 14, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts.

Following a discouraging NHL season, the Boston Bruins are eager to right the ship during the 2025-26 campaign. The organization has undergone several changes, including the recent hiring of Marco Sturm. Hoping to surround the debuting head coach with the best talent, the Spoked B reached an agreement with one key defenseman for the future.

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The past season wasn’t easy, whatsoever, for the Bruins. They witnessed key departures on almost every side of the puck, including Brad Marchand’s exit to hoist the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers.

Marchand’s magical run with the Panthers led to a first round pick for the Bruins in 2027 (Top-10 protected). Still, it wasn’t exactly fun for fans in Boston to see the team’s former captain having so much fun with some of their most despised opponents.

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Now, the Spoked B has made it its mission not to experience such dismay again. Defense wins championships, and the Bruins are well aware of that. The organization announced the re-signing of young defenseman Mason Lohrei. The former 2020 second-round selection signed a two-year, $6.4M extension, keeping him in Boston through the 2026-27 NHL season.

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Lohrei stats

Most critics point at Lohrei’s -43 plus/minus in the past campaign, yet that number got out of hand towards the end of the season when the roster was dismantled. Lohrei registered -18 and -9 marks in the months of March and April, respectively.

David Pastrnak’s Bruins look to move on from the Brad Marchand era and add another key piece to the coaching staff

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During his sophomore season, the 24-year-old blueliner recorded 33 points (5 goals and 28 assists) in 77 outings. The Bruins are excited about Lohrei’s upside on the offensive zone, but have some concerns regarding his defensive skills.

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Signing him to a short-term deal reflects Boston’s stance on its defenseman: they’re pleased with his progress, but not yet convinced enough to commit to a long-term contract.

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