3 first-round talents the Canadiens can steal in the second round of the NHL Draft

Maxim Masse, RW/Chicoutimi Sagueneens

Another right-winger who boasts excellent size at 6’2, 190 pounds, and one who could evolve into a solid power forward, Maxim Masse is that ideal hybrid between a scorer and a playmaker. We know this because not only did he find the net 36 times in 2023-24, but he also added 39 assists for 75 points in 67 games. 

This wasn’t a massive jump in production, and it could be a reason Masse falls deep into the second round, even if outlets like FC Hockey have him ranked as highly as 34th or borderline first-round territory. That said, he could easily be a surprise pick toward the end of Round 1 or even scooped up early in Round 2, but other outlets, like Elite Prospects, clock him in at 54th overall, and still others have him ranked in the 60s. 

Lots of variation here, but what would make Maxim Masse a steal if he’s the Canadiens pick in Round 2 of the NHL Draft? We already talked about his size, hybrid scoring, and playmaking ability, but he’s a physical player who’s only too happy to compete in puck battles.  

Overall, Masse is an ideal player who could fill the lower lines on an NHL team in the future, which would be a fair projection for a Canadiens team whose top-six should remove the ‘under construction’ label soon. Masse, if Montreal drafts him and when he’s ready, would sidle right in and play a good defensive game, but teams would also be forced to account for his shot.