The University of Massachusetts has announced the addition of Finnish defenseman Samu Alalauri to its 2026‑27 hockey roster, a move that bolsters the team’s defensive depth heading into the upcoming season.
Scouting Profile
Alalauri, a 6‑2, 220‑pound right‑shot blue‑liner from Lahti, Finland, was listed 17th among European skaters on the final NHL Central Scouting rankings, positioning him as a strong candidate for the forthcoming NHL draft.
During his recent seasons with the Pelicans in Finland’s SM‑sarja, he logged 32 points — eight goals and 24 assists — across 79 games for the U20 side, earning the Toni Lyndman Award as Defenseman of the Year in both 2024‑25 and 2025‑26.
Coach Greg Carvel praised the newcomer, describing him as a promising Finnish defenseman who brings size, maturity and a well‑rounded two‑way game to the program.
Beyond club play, Alalauri has represented Finland at multiple junior levels, captaining the U18 squad and wearing an “A” as an alternate captain at the 2025‑26 Under‑18 World Junior Championship, where he contributed four points in five games at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
The roster move also highlights the program’s continued focus on international talent, joining a growing list of European players who have made an impact in the Hockey East conference.