Canadiens: Potential Surprise Players to Watch out for in Training Camp

Mattias Norlinder

Now for a bit of prospect talk, Mattias Norlinder has managed to catch the eye of fans and analysts alike after an impressive rookie season in the SweHL with Frolunda HC. Playing alongside a mix of top prospects and former NHLers, from former Dallas Stars forward Joel Lundqvist to former Detroit Red Wings fourth overall pick Lucas Raymond, to even former Canadiens farmhand and St. John’s IceCaps captain Max Friberg.

Since biding his time in the Swedish first and junior divisions with the MoDo program, Norlinder has developed into a solid two-way defender with plenty of upside. Now fresh off his first entry-level deal with the Canadiens, Norlinder is, in my opinion, a prime candidate to make a splash in training camp, and potentially earn a roster spot down the line. What’s caught most people’s attention over this past season, is Norlinder’s penchant for highlight-reel goals, evidence of his offensive potential and surprising end to end ability which compliments his 5’10 frame.

While he’ll have to face up to Montreal’s rock-solid top four and equally solid third pairing, Norlinder has shown the ability to serve a role and serve it well alongside veteran players. Something I’ve mentioned in passing is that typically, if a NHL prospect has produced well in a quote on quote “men’s league” (I.E., not a junior league) it says a lot for his potential, and I think Norlinder fits this bill nicely. While he’ll likely serve as a call-up option, I think Norlinder could definitely make some noise next season a la Victor Mete.