Was Michael Hage snubbed from Canada's World Juniors selection camp?

Michael Hage has been on a tear in his freshmen year at Michigan University. The centerman has recorded eight goals, nine assists, and a total of 17 points in 13 games, enough to lead the team in all three categories. At just 18 years old, his exclusion from Team Canada's World Junior selection camp reflects how uncommon it is for freshmen to receive the call rather than any shortcoming in his game.

Although the Canadiens won’t have any players representing Team Canada this year, fans shouldn’t panic over Michael Hage being left out. Canada’s depth at the Under-20 level is second to none, and no spot on the roster is ever guaranteed, even for a top prospect like Hage. Historically, the team tends to prioritize older, more experienced players, and this year is no exception, especially after last year’s disappointing quarterfinal loss. The decision to lean on veterans is understandable, given the stakes, but Hage’s absence shouldn’t raise alarm bells.

Being left off the World Juniors roster can sting for any young player, and while Hage himself has said he is at peace with the decision, it should still serve as fuel to prove the selectors wrong. This setback could be the motivation he needs to elevate his game. By focusing on sharpening his skills and leading Michigan to success, Hage can ensure that, when 2025 rolls around, his performance leaves no doubt about his place on Team Canada.

Hage's path to Team Canada and beyond

For Hage, this snub offers an opportunity to focus entirely on his development at Michigan. His dominance at the NCAA level as both a scorer and a playmaker, combined with his leadership qualities, will only strengthen his case for next year’s World Juniors and, more importantly, his long-term NHL potential.

Even if Hage doesn’t crack the lineup next year, it’s far from a setback for him and should not be seen as such by Canadiens fans. His primary focus remains winning at Michigan and solidifying his place in the Canadiens’ plans for the future. As one of the Canadiens’ top prospects, Hage is projected to develop into a top-six centerman, potentially solving Montreal’s long-standing depth issues down the middle. While a World Junior appearance would undoubtedly aid his growth, missing out won’t define his future. The 2024 first-round pick has already demonstrated he has the tools to thrive, with or without Team Canada.

While Michael Hage’s exclusion from this year’s World Junior selection camp may have been more or less expected, it doesn’t diminish his bright future. His stellar performance at Michigan University highlights his potential as both a leader and a game-changer, qualities that Canadiens fans can be excited about. While a spot on Team Canada’s roster next year would be a fantastic step in his development, it’s clear that his focus should remain on dominating in the NCAA and continuing to prove his worth to Montreal. Whether he dons the red and white jersey or not, Hage’s trajectory as a top prospect signals that the best is yet to come for both him and the Canadiens.