Jeff Lazaro

Jeff Lazaro was speedster with good defensive anticipation. Though limited physically by his 5'10" 180lb frame, Lazaro played with an enthusiasm and aggression that could change the momentum of the game. A tireless worker, other than his incredible speed Lazaro had little NHL quality finesse skills.

Lazaro came out of nowhere, almost literally. After a playing as a defenseman with the University of New Hampshire, Lazaro attended a free agent training camp in Boston which is often scouted by obscure minor leagues, although is organized by a couple of Boston Bruins scouts. Lazaro impressed the Bruins well enough to invite him to training camp where he again impressed and won a spot on the team. Lazaro was playing a regular role with the team by mid season.

Lazaro scored 5 goals and 13 assists in 49 games while splitting the season with the Bruins and the AHL's Maine Mariners. The following season he was used rather sparingly and also saw time in the minors. He was claimed in the expansion draft by the Ottawa Senators on June 18, 1992. He played a similar role in Ottawa for 26 games but was quickly released by the Senators.

Lazaro, a native of Waltham, Massachusetts, Lazaro twice represented team USA at the World Championships after his NHL days. His speed on the international ice surface won him a spot on the 1994 Team USA Olympic squad as well. Lazaro spent time playing in European leagues as well as other North American minor leagues.