Montreal Canadiens: Top Five Players Under 25
Kaiden Guhle
Kaiden Guhle was a physical menace in the Western Hockey League, first with the Prince Albert Raider, then with the Edmonton Oil Kings. He was a physical specimen, and his well-timed bone-crushing body checks aided his stout defensive game masterfully. He was relied upon in all situations, and trusted to defend when most needed. He scored 15 points in 17 games with the Raiders before he was dealt to the Oil Kings, and he put up point-per-game totals (25 points in 25 games), but he saved his best work for the playoffs.
The WHL playoff run for the Oil Kings was the second of Guhle’s junior career, as the Raiders failed to qualify for the offseason in two of his three seasons. His first postseason stint was 23 games, but his 19-game showing in 2021-22 was the young defender’s best work. His 16 points (eight goals and eight assists) helped him win WHL playoff MVP honours and aided the Oil Kings’ championship win.
Guhle rounded out his game following his selection at 16th overall in the first round of the 2020 NHL Draft by the Canadiens, using his strong skating and poise to fuel his offensive game. The physical aspect came naturally and was a mainstay in his defensive approach, but his offensive game came a long way post-draft. His two-way mobility at the blue line, and hard, accurate shot along with great vision allowed him to be a threat for a one-timer or give-and-go.
His rookie game continued the upward trend in Guhle’s development, and amongst a young group of Canadiens blue liners in 2021-22, he played a mature game, beyond his years and he never looked rushed or uncomfortable. Guhle showed great mobility for his size, and he was able to escape pressure regularly, either with a smart pass, swift skating or a dump up the boards. He lets his play do the talking, and he is a gamer, who just consistently improves because he is so coachable.
44 games were all that Guhle was able to play during his rookie NHL campaign, but he played crucial minutes in all situations. With a full offseason to rest and recover, with the added experience, he should show up at training camp and look dominant. His steady game and consistent strong play will complement his smooth skating beautifully, and he will be a very important piece of the Habs blue line.