Bruins Sign Dans Locmelis to Entry Level Contract

The Boston Bruins have made a significant move by signing Latvian forward Dans Locmelis to a three-year entry-level contract. This deal, which carries an annual NHL cap hit of $860,000, marks a pivotal moment in Locmelis’s career as he transitions to professional hockey. The Bruins’ decision to secure Locmelis underscores their confidence in his potential to contribute to the team’s future success.

Contract Details

Locmelis’s entry-level contract will commence in the 2025-26 season. The agreement includes a $775,000 NHL salary, an $85,000 signing bonus, and an $82,500 minors salary per year. For the remainder of the 2024-25 season, Locmelis will join the Providence Bruins on an amateur tryout (ATO), giving him an opportunity to acclimate to the professional game.

Hockey Path: From Sweden to the NCAA

Dans Locmelis’s journey to the NHL began in his hometown of Jelgava, Latvia, where he developed his skills with the Zemgale youth team. His talent soon caught the attention of scouts, leading him to Sweden, where he joined the Luleå HF organization. Locmelis spent four seasons playing junior hockey in Sweden, including a standout campaign in the J20 Nationell league, where he recorded 25 goals and 34 assists for 59 points in 44 games. His performance in Sweden showcased his offensive prowess and earned him a brief stint in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) with Luleå HF.

In 2023, Locmelis made the leap to North America, committing to the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass) in the NCAA. Over two seasons with the Minutemen, he demonstrated consistent growth, tallying 15 goals and 32 assists for 47 points in 70 games. His sophomore season was particularly impressive, as he set career highs with eight goals, 25 assists, and 33 points in 40 games. Locmelis’s time at UMass not only honed his skills but also prepared him for the rigors of professional hockey.

International Experience

Locmelis has represented Latvia on the international stage with distinction. He participated in three consecutive IIHF World Junior Championships (2022, 2023, and 2024), where he registered six goals and four assists in 16 games. In 2023, he played a key role in Latvia’s historic bronze medal win at the IIHF World Championships, contributing to the team’s success against formidable opponents. Additionally, Locmelis helped Latvia secure a spot in the 2026 Olympic Games during the Olympic Qualifying tournament in September 2024.

Scouting Report

Dans Locmelis is a 6-foot-1, 175-pound center known for his versatility and hockey IQ. His ability to read the game and make smart decisions on the ice has been a hallmark of his play. Locmelis excels in transition, using his vision and passing ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. He is also effective in the defensive zone, where he disrupts opponents’ plays with his active stick and positioning.

One scout described Locmelis as a player who “possesses a deceptive attack when on the rush. He uses the width of the ice, surveys the situation for the right teammate and passes to them accurately in transition sequences. He protects pucks in the offensive zone and is able to buy time for his teammates to get into scoring areas. Defensively he attacks gaps in coverage, and reloads above the puck when his team loses it”. This well-rounded skill set makes him a valuable asset in all situations.

Locmelis’s coaches have praised his work ethic and leadership qualities. At UMass, he was a key contributor to the team’s success, particularly during their postseason run in 2025. His ability to perform under pressure and elevate his game in critical moments has not gone unnoticed.

The Boston Bruins’ signing of Locmelis represents an investment in a promising young talent. With his impressive track record in junior hockey, the NCAA, and international competition, Locmelis has the potential to make a significant impact at the professional level. As he begins his journey with the Providence Bruins, fans should be watching closely to see how he adapts to the challenges of the AHL and, eventually, the NHL. For Locmelis, this is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting career in hockey.

Locmelis is interested in joining Latvia for the World Championships which begin May 10, 2025. The Providence Bruins regular season ends April 19. A long playoff run may prevent him from joining his countrymen unless there is an agreement with the Bruins to allow him to attend. The Winter Olympics are also in the picture for him.