Frontenacs’ Lalonde enjoying comforts of home in overage season

Kingston Frontenacs goaltender Nolan Lalonde is set to complete the full circle of his OHL journey, returning to his hometown team for his overage season after winning the Memorial Cup with the Saginaw Spirit last year. Originally drafted by the Erie Otters in the third round (49th overall) of the 2020 OHL Priority Selection, Lalonde now enters his fourth season in the OHL, but this time back where his hockey dreams all began.

“It’s pretty surreal,” said Lalonde. “The six-year-old me who used to come here to watch games is definitely smiling right now, it’s a special place for me.”

Nostalgia runs deep for Lalonde as he recalls his childhood memories of watching his hockey heroes at Kingston’s Slush Puppie Place (formerly the Leon’s Centre). “I know exactly where I used to sit,” he said. “It’s special. I can remember so many moments from being here as a kid. Philipp Grubauer was my favourite growing up”.

Now a 20-year-old in the League, Lalonde joins Mason Vaccari in the Kingston crease, bringing experience from both the OHL and his time with the Columbus Blue Jackets organization, where he signed a free-agent contract in 2022.

“Learning from the players and staff in Columbus has been incredible for my development as a goaltender,” Lalonde said. “From my warm-up routines to how I work out and approach the game on and off the ice, it’s all been a big part of my growth. I’m excited to bring that knowledge back to Kingston. We’ve got a fantastic staff here, and that’s been really helpful for my game as well.”

Last season was a whirlwind for Lalonde, who went to Saginaw and strung together a new Spirit franchise record 16 consecutive wins spanning from November through February before later hoisting the Memorial Cup in June.

Lalonde is embracing his role as a veteran on the team, reflecting on how former teammates like Brendan Kischnick helped guide him during his early years in Erie. “Brendan helped me so much with the transition, from being away from home to navigating the challenges of junior hockey. He’s still one of my best friends today.”

As an overage player, Lalonde is looking forward to taking on a leadership role, highlighting the importance of open communication and a supportive atmosphere. “I want the younger players to feel comfortable coming to me with any questions. Everyone here has a voice in Kingston,” he said.

Lalonde also emphasizes the mental aspect of goaltending and the importance of having fun. “A lot of goaltending is mental. When you’re not enjoying it, things can spiral out of control, so it’s essential to get out there, block out the noise and have fun every night.”

Returning to his roots in Kingston for his final OHL season, Lalonde views this year as both a homecoming and a chance to advance his career while inspiring the next generation of Frontenacs fans.

Lalonde is back in Erie tonight as the Frontenacs take on the Otters at 7:00pm. See the game at watch.chl.ca.

His @KingstonFronts had things under control on Friday, but @BlueJacketsNHL prospect Nolan Lalonde was stellar, making 21 saves for a hometown shutout 🎥 pic.twitter.com/fSo9kzC0he

— Ontario Hockey League (@OHLHockey) October 5, 2024