Friday was a day for Montreal Canadiens fans, as two of their younger talents scored highlight reel goals.
During last night's matchup against the lowly Chicago Blackhawks, Habs rookie Emil Heineman showed impressive patience. After a shot went high past Arvid Soderblom's net, Heineman waited patiently for the ensuing bounce off the glass. The puck bounced back to the crease, and Heineman used great hand-eye to bat it into the net for a tally.
Heineman has been a welcomed surprise for the Canadiens, after he impressed at training camp forcing his way onto the team. The rookie is one of just three with 10-plus goals this season, joining Macklin Celebrini and Matvei Michkov. That is some pretty good company for the Habs rookie; as both players are considered cornerstone pieces for their team's.
With another game on Saturday against the Colorado Avalanche, the Habs have an opportunity to redeem themselves after a loss to Chicago on Friday night. Heineman also has a chance to add to his already impressive goal total. Impressive work for the Swede, considering he plays on the fourth line.
The Canadiens top prospect, and arguably the best player not currently in the NHL, Ivan Demidov threw his name in the ring for the prettiest goal of the day. Then he decided he needed another goal, this time he batted the puck out of the air into the back of the net. The tally was the second of the night for Demidov, and his second of three points on the night.
The loss was a frustrating one, but there were a few silver linings, which I will further discuss in another article. But the loss stings and it is definitely nice to see goals like Demidov and Heineman's to keep us all feeling positive. The team is pushing in the right direction, but hiccups and growing pains are bound to happen, it's how the team bounces back that shows their strength.
Canadiens prospects continue strong play
Demidov and Heineman showed off what they can do, both giving plenty of reasons to be excited for the present and future. But they aren't the only players that have been keeping a grin on Kent Hughes face. Down in Laval there have been many reasons for excitement, but one player that has stood out is Owen Beck.
Beck has impressed with his stellar two-way play and strong faceoff works, but that is expected from him. However, it still shouldn't be overlooked, and on top of it, his offensive game has come out; which some questioned how good it could become. He certainly has a lethal shot and he is a speedy skater, but he appeared to be more of a defensive-minded forward; perhaps there is something more.
Another guy that fans have kept a close eye on is Michael Hage, and rightfully so, because he has been impressive in his freshman season. The Michigan Wolverine product has played 15 college hockey games, and for the most part, he takes over shifts with his brilliant toolkit. If he is playing and you can't catch the game live, looking at Twitter to watch his highlights won't disappoint.
Hage always has his head up, and he doesn't hesitate when he attacks opponents or races for loose pucks. When he is in the offensive zone, if you blink you miss a quick cut with his feet or some impressive stickhandling. Hage is electric, and if he gets an opportunity he tries to make the most of it.