Montreal Canadiens prospect Sean Farrell’s 2023-24 campaign is sure to be interesting, as he has moved on from Harvard University in the NCAA to play professionally. The big question mark, now, is where he will play – Laval? or Montreal?
With the recent acquisition of Alex Newhook from the Colorado Avalanche, Rafael Harvey Pinard seemingly primed for a top-nine winger role and a presumably healthy forward core, there is simply not room for everyone at the NHL level.
Where does Farrell fit?
Montreal Canadiens?
The Harvard Crimson product had an unbelievable season in the NCAA, earning himself consideration for the Hobey Baker Award. While Farrell’s squad didn’t win the NCAA championship, he made the most of his time after being eliminated by making his way over to the NHL.
He certainly isn’t a lock to crack the NHL roster come October, and while he will have every opportunity to do so, he will have some stiff competition. So, if Farrell isn’t slotted into the top nine at the very least with time on the power play, then it’s likely best he goes down to Laval for big, valuable development minutes. A small, skilled playmaking winger doesn’t belong on the fourth line with linemates who are penalty killing specialists.
There is no rush to bring up Farrell to the big club. The rebuild is still in the relatively early stages, and season expectations are tempered because of that fact. That said, Farrell has the skill to impress at training camp and remain in the top nine, work his way up the lineup, or even into earning more power play time.
It isn’t a case of boom or bust, but if Farrell isn’t getting the ice time, or not performing to par, a stint in the AHL with the Laval Rocket would make the most sense.
Laval Rocket
It can’t be overstated that it would not be a demotion, should Farrell start or even play his rookie professional season down the road from La Centre Bell in Laval. The Rockets’ roster is going to have some fresh faces this season, among some of the names are; Logan Mailloux, Joshua Roy, Riley Kidney and Jayden Struble, to name a few. Farrell could provide a nice, top-six staple with elite playmaking skills and a very high hockey IQ.
I believe that keeping Farrell down in the American Hockey League for the full campaign would be huge for his development. Getting used to the pace, while going through the motions alongside veteran players will be an asset for his future. The NHL trade deadline could prove to be interesting; as the Canadiens may move some older forwards to open up spots for call-ups from Laval.
Regardless of where Sean Farrell plays this upcoming season, it is only a matter of time before he earns his place in the NHL. As Cole Caufield believes; Farrell was a steal of a pick.
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