The Montreal Canadiens have taken a huge 180-degree turn since the new management has taken the reigns of the organization.
With that, prioritizing a great player-development team has become critical for the team’s future. As evidenced by the strong performances at the Canadiens training camp, and to commence the 2023-24 campaign, there are some big pieces that will be ready to make the jump to the NHL over the next two years.
I say two years, simply because I feel a couple of guys will need some seasoning in the American Hockey League after graduating from the junior ranks. In prospect development, you’re always better off taking the safe approach, rather than feeling sorry because a player was rushed.
A slow and steady approach with ample opportunities rewards players who prove they deserve a chance to show their stuff for the Habs. This allows players to add confidence at the pro level and continue to develop their offensive game without being crushed by the bright lights of the Bell Centre. Mistakes can be amplified when playing at the NHL level and nothing sucks the confidence out of a young player more than a few costly turnovers and not being able to contribute on the scoresheet.
The Canadiens have an array of talent throughout Europe from the SHL in Sweden to the NL in Switzerland, and even in the KHL in Russia. There is also a stud prospect in the NCAA and a haul of promising talents set to represent the Laval Rocket in the AHL this season. If there has ever been an important year for development it would be the 2023-24 season and to some extent the 2024-25.
Below we will dive into a group of players who will join the club over the next two seasons.