Major Reinforcements Expected for the Canadiens' Offense, According to Source from Michigan Hinting at Hage

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Elias Edmonson
October 30, 2024 (9:11 PM)

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When the Canadiens used their second first-round pick in the NHL draft last June in Vegas, several experts called it a steal.

Indeed, many declared that the selection of Michael Hage was a huge win for the Montreal Canadiens, especially outside of the top 20.

Now, a few months later, we can say that he hasn't disappointed since the start of the season, getting off to an impressive start with the University of Michigan team in the NCAA.

In six games this year, Hage has tallied seven points, including four goals, and has earned praise from one of his coaches, Rob Rassey, who already compares him to the elite of college hockey.

«With the puck on his stick, he's as good as any player. In terms of his overall playmaking skills, he's in the elite.» - Rob Rassey

However, it's a statement from a journalist covering the Michigan team that is likely to excite Canadiens fans.

Michael Hage in the NHL with the Montreal Canadiens this season?

In an article by TVA Sports journalist Nicolas Cloutier, Graham Baker, who has covered college hockey in the Michigan area for years for the Michigan Daily, suggested that Michael Hage could find himself in Montreal by the end of this season.

«The way Michael Hage is playing, I feel like it will be one year, and then goodbye. If he continues at this pace, he could play in the NHL by the end of the season.»

- Graham Baker

This is quite a bold statement from the journalist, as it's quite rare to see a mid-first-round pick make the jump to the NHL at just 18 years old.

However, this speaks volumes about the potential of the Canadiens' young prospect, whom many see as the future third-line center once the team becomes a formidable contender.