Only one player in New England prep school hockey had more points per game this winter than Kent School’s Alex Laferriere.
That’s a pretty good accomplishment for any rookie on the prep circuit, but it’s even more remarkable when you consider the rapid growth in Laferriere’s game over the past few seasons.
When many 2001-born players were playing 16-U hockey during the 2016-17 season, Laferriere was playing 15 Pure hockey with the North Jersey Avalanche. By the end of last season, the Chatham, N.J., native had improved his game to the point where he was offered a chance to play Division 1 college hockey at Army.
Fast forward to this season and Laferriere averaged nearly two points per game and has been added to the affiliates list of the USHL’s Des Moines Buccaneers.
Not only did Laferriere enjoy success on the scoresheet, he and his teammates also enjoyed a terrific season on the ice. The Lions were one of the best teams in prep school hockey, winning the NEPSAC Martin/Earl large-school tournament.
“It’s been a pretty great year. We have a special team and a great coaching staff. Everyone cares about the team and the success of the team. We all show up to practice every day ready to work. That helps in the success we’ve had,” said Laferriere.
Laferriere was the right wing on one of prep hockey’s most vaunted top lines. It was centered by his longtime friend and teammate from his North Jersey Avalanche days, Michael Posma, and Aidan Cobb was on the left wing.
“I owe a lot of my success to having a great line and great teammates. I’ve been fortunate enough to play with two of the best players in prep hockey. Having a connection with Aidan and Michael has helped a lot,” explained Laferriere.
Posma and Laferriere’s friendship and chemistry on the ice goes way back. They’ve played together the past three seasons now and have a bond that extends beyond the ice surface.
“We’re roommates at school. We’re around each other all the time. We’ve known each other for a long time and played together on the Avalanche. He’s my best friend and we have a very special connection,” Laferriere said.
Friendships are a key part of what Laferriere learned in his two seasons with the North Jersey Avalanche, a program that has come a long way over the past few seasons.
“I grew up playing for the New Jersey Colonials, then went over to the Avs. (Coaches) Larry Robbins and Vinny Smith were great. They preach family,” Laferriere said. “That’s really stuck with me even until today. You have to connect with your teammates and hold everyone accountable. That coaching staff helped a lot.”
Laferriere was relied upon in all situations for Kent this winter. In addition to his duties on the top line, he played the power play and killed penalties. He’s fast, flies all over the ice and competes. In addition, he has the vision and hands to make plays and finish.
“Growing up, my dad was a great skater. He’s always had me doing skating drills. That helped a lot. Skating is probably one of my strong suits,” said Laferriere.
Alex’s father, Rob Laferriere, played college hockey at Boston College and always has been a guiding hand in his son’s hockey development.
While Laferriere isn’t overly large in stature, his compete level and the fact that he keeps his feet moving all the time are reasons he can excel at the prep level and beyond. It allows him to have an impact throughout all 200 feet of the ice sheet.
“I try to play a two-way game,” Laferriere stated. "I’d like to consider myself a player who plays like (Boston Bruins center) Patrice Bergeron. I’m a big Bruins fan, so he’s one of the players I look up to. He’s an unbelievable player and plays a two-way game. I’d like to model my game after him."
While Laferriere could play another season of prep hockey after this one, the Des Moines Buccaneers hope he’ll join their organization. He’s already played five games in the USHL, the top breeding ground of college hockey players. However, his destination for his senior year is something Laferriere isn’t ready to think about until he and his teammates can finish their mission.
“I haven’t really thought about it much lately. I’m just trying to focus on the playoffs and winning a large-school championship. It’s something I’ll discuss with my parents and coaches after the season is over,” he said.
Laferriere, born after Sept. 15, 2001, is considered a late ’01 for NHL Entry Draft considerations, meaning he’s not eligible until the 2020 NHL draft. Rest assured, whether he’s in the USHL or back at Kent, there will be draft talk surrounding Laferriere next winter.
Farinacci on fire
Laferriere isn’t the only Chatham, N.J., native to have invaded the New England prep school hockey circuit this winter. Dexter senior center John Farinacci had the most points per game of any player in prep hockey, despite missing 13 games due to an injury.
Farinacci is a dynamic, skilled forward who was a key cog in Dexter’s run to the NEPSAC Stuart/Corkery Elite 8 tournament semifinals. He had two assists in his team’s quarterfinal win at St. Sebastian’s.
The game was one of the most heavily scouted prep school games in years due to Farinacci and St. Sebastian’s defenseman Jayden Struble both being considered for a top-two-round selection at this June’s NHL draft.
