Boston Bruins Historical 2020 NHL Draft
Without a first round selection to kick off Tuesday nights NHL Draft, the Boston Bruins stood idly by. Perceived by many to be analyzing their options considering they were reportedly in on everything. The San Jose Sharks concluded an relatively uneventful first night by selecting the awesomely named Ozzy Wiesblatt at 31 overall.
Intentional or not Bruins General Manager Don Sweeney had his plan in place for day two, and that was to make history.
Ironically on the eve of the draft my colleague Neal Lyons questioned whether Sweeney, who has a penchant for favoriting NCAA players at the draft, has some sort of gripe with the CHL. Much to his dismay after this past week he may have a point, specific to Boston's second round pick.
When making a selection at 58 overall, the general consensus is there will be shortage of high caliber talent available. Yet much like your fantasy football buddy who selects a defense in the 5th round, finding Mason Lohrei required most scouts and analysts to frantically turn multiple pages of notes.
Set to represent the Ohio State Buckeyes in NCAA play come next fall, Mason currently carries the puck out of his own zone for the Green Bay Gamblers of the USHL.
Standing 6 foot 4 and weighing in at 201 pounds the already 19 year old Lohrei skates with a ton of confidence and is physically ready to play at the professional level. The question remains however, how mentally prepared is he?
It stands to reason that with a less than noteworthy prospect pool and aging veteran core may have influenced this decision. Selecting a 19-year-old suggests Boston is hoping Lohrei will be a contributor in their lineup sooner rather than later. However, Sweeney will take his fair share of flack until then.