Montreal Canadiens: 3 Prospects Who Could Force Their Way Into Habs Lineup Next Season

Rafaël Harvey-Pinard

Rafaël Harvey-Pinard was a 7th round draft pick of the Canadiens back in 2019, but he was far from a throwaway selection. He had just scored 40 goals and 85 points in 66 QMJHL games and followed it up with 27 points in 20 playoff games.

The Jonquière, Quebec native played his first AHL season in 2020-21 and fit right in at the pro level. He scored 20 points in 36 games but he played a gritty, physical game for a player his stature.

The 5’9″ and 183 pound winger quickly earned comparisons to Brendan Gallagher and earned the moniker “Lavallagher” from the local press. It is an apt description of the 23 year old’s game as he brings far more to the team than just points. He is outweighed in just about every puck battle, but he doesn’t let it slow him down.

He scored 21 goals and 56 points in 69 games for the Laval Rocket this season, proving he does have plenty of offence to bring at the pro level. He also earned his first NHL call-up and though it lasted just four games he potted his first career goal.

The Canadiens wings are crowded with overpaid veterans, but Harvey-Pinard is good enough that he might just steal a third line role away from a player who makes far more money than he does.