Ottawa's Lassi Thomson joins Lugano

HC Lugano has secured the services of Lassi Thomson until 2028. "Expressen" had already reported this back in January. The Finn is joining the Bianconeri from the Ottawa Senators's organization, where he spent four of the last five seasons.

"Lassi is a defenseman with outstanding offensive skills who has played at the highest level in recent years", team manager Janick Steinmann states. "He is very creative, an excellent skater, and has a powerful shot. He will bloster our power play and lead our five-on-five game. He also possesses natural leadership qualities and is entering the prime of his career."

Thomson, 25, grew up within Ilves' youth department. In 2018, he headed to Canada to play for the Kelowna Rockets (WHL). The following summer, he was selected 19th overall in the NHL Entry Draft by the Ottawa Senators. After spending some time back with Ilves, Thomson eventually made his first appearances for Ottawa's AHL affiliate in February of 2021. His NHL debut followed in November of the same year. In 2024, Thomson signed with the Malmö Redhawks, only to once again join Ottawa last summer.

On the departing side, Einar Emanuelsson is now confirmed not to stay with Lugano. He instead joins SaiPa (Liiga) on a deal valid for the coming season. The Swede spent part of this winter with the Bianconeri on loan from Luleå.