Boston Bruins Defenseman Mason Lohrei Becomes First Louisiana-Born Player to Skate in NHL Game

For the first time ever, someone born in Louisiana has laced up the skates and played in a National Hockey League game.

Boston Bruins defenseman Mason Lohrei recorded his first career point last night, notching an assist in his team's 3-2 win Thursday night over the visiting Toronto Maple Leafs.

Born on the Bayou...or Mississippi River

Lohrei was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on January 17, 2001, and now has the distinction of being the first NHL player born in the state of Louisiana.

You may be wondering, "Wait, there must be a catch?" And yes, there is a bit of one.

Mason was born in Baton Rouge because his father, David Lohrei, was the head coach of the Baton Rouge Kingfish in 2001. David is originally from Wisconsin, but of course, he and his family lived in the Capital City while he was coaching the ECHL team.

How did Mason Lohrei make it to the NHL?

Lohrei committed to play college ice hockey for the Ohio State University Buckeyes for the 2021-22 season.

He was quite impressive that first season, leading the team with 25 assists. As a result of his good play, Lorhei was named to the All-Big Ten Freshman Team.

Lohrei returned for a sophomore campaign the next year and would finish second on the team in assists and third in total points, with 28 and 32 respectively.

That 2022-23 season, the Buckeyes made the NCAA tournament but would lose in the second round to eventual national champion Quinnipiac Bobcats.

On March 31, 2023, the Providence Bruins signed Lohrei to an amateur tryout contract for the remainder of the 2022-23 season, ending his collegiate career. He only played five regular season games with the club.

On May 10, 2023, the Boston Bruins announced they had signed Lohrei to a two-year, entry-level contract.

The Boston Bruins are one of the best teams so far in the young 2023-23 NHL season. They're sporting a 9-0-1 record with 19 points. Only defending Stanley Cup champions Las Vegas Knights have more points (21).