Lucchini Makes Good First Impression

BELLEVILLE, Ont. - Jake Lucchini didn't have to wait long to find the scoresheet with his new team, scoring twice in his CAA Arena debut.

The game was only his second appearance with the Belleville Senators' organization since being acquired from the Laval Rocket in exchange for future considerations last Tuesday afternoon.

Lucchini admitted to feeling strange about playing his first two games of the season against his former club but is ultimately pleased to find himself situated in the Friendly City.

"It was a little weird playing against them [on Friday], but [by Saturday it] was kind of more normal because you're around the guys a little more," Lucchini told InsideAHLHockey.com. "It's great being here. I love this rink. The fans were great. It's a new opportunity, and I'm excited to be here."

Looking to add depth, head coach Troy Mann said the organization had a good handle on acquiring the 26-year-old left-winger from Trail, B.C., who played with B-Sens' assistant coach Ben Sexton in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (2018-19) and strongly recommended him.

Mann went on to compare Lucchini's playing style to the likes of Parker Kelly. The fan favourite is currently on recall in Ottawa.

"They play a very similar style, and we were looking to replace that," Mann said of Lucchini. "He's got good speed, really good hockey I.Q., brings energy, is very positive on the bench. We think he can be a really good third-line player."

There's little doubt Lucchini will continue to thrive under the direction of his new coaching staff. For the moment, the skilled forward has staked out a two-way role in the bottom six.