Nanaimo Clippers blueliner Matt Lahey is the top-ranked BCHL defenceman on NHL Central Scouting’s Final Rankings ahead of this weekend’s draft, coming in as the 110th-ranked North American skater.
In his second full season in the league in 2023-24, the Victoria, B.C. product took a significant step forward in his development, contributing 19 points in 54 games, a massive improvement from the one assist he registered the year prior. He earned a spot in the league’s Top Prospects Game in January.
We caught up with Lahey to discuss his development in Nanaimo, his thoughts on the draft, his commitment to Clarkson University and more.
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BCHL: With this year being your draft year, how were you able to handle that extra pressure?
Lahey: It’s hard to avoid that kind of stuff, but I don’t think I thought about it once when I was on the ice. That being said, it’s definitely something that kind of lingers in the back of your mind when you’re off the ice though.
BCHL: You ended up as the BCHL’s highest-ranked defenceman on Central Scouting’s Final Rankings. Does that mean anything to you?
Lahey: Obviously it’s a big accomplishment, but there’s a ton of other talented defencemen in the league as well.
BCHL: What has your time in Nanaimo done for your development?
Lahey: I think I took a big step forward, in my second year especially. My first year, I kind of used it as a an opportunity to learn from the older guys that had already been there for the previous two or three years. Overall, it’s been a great experience. I’ve really enjoyed my time in Nanaimo.
BCHL: If you were speaking with an NHL general manager or a scout, how would you describe your game?
Lahey: I’m a big puck-moving defenceman who can make plays in all three zones. I like to think of myself as someone who can be relied on in any situation.
BCHL: What would it mean to you if you were to get drafted this weekend?
Lahey: It would mean the world to me and my family, but it’s not the be-all, end-all. My goal is to have a long pro career, so it would be a step in the right direction.
BCHL: You’re committed to Clarkson University once your junior career wraps up. Why was that school the best fit for you?
Lahey: I think the school matches my personality a lot. They’re a smaller school and were actually the first ones to reach out to me, so I think it’s a really nice fit.
