Since initiating their reset in 2018, the Canadiens have stockpiled an impressive number of high draft picks—both through their own selections and via trades. Four straight seasons out of the playoffs and multiple years as sellers have made those decisions easy for the front office. As a result, Montreal now boasts a deep pool of quality prospects and holds 12 more picks in the upcoming NHL Draft, including nine within the first four rounds.
But with his team on the brink of missing the playoffs again, GM Kent Hughes has signalled a shift in strategy. Instead of stockpiling more picks at this year’s trade deadline, he’s looking to acquire NHL-ready players who can make an immediate impact.
The Canadiens’ prospect pipeline is widely regarded as one of the best in the league. Some of these young talents have already made the leap, while others are on the verge of breaking through. As next season approaches, several prospects will be in serious contention for a spot with the big club.
FORWARDS
Graduated this season: Emil Heineman
Ivan Demidov
Considered by many as the best player currently not in the NHL, Demidov’s arrival is highly anticipated. His KHL contract expires at season’s end, and given that he’s already shattered records for an 18-19-year-old in the league, there’s little doubt he’ll make an immediate impact in Montreal. Expect him to be a difference-maker for years to come.
Owen Beck
Beck is having a strong rookie season with Laval, fresh off a hat trick at the AHL All-Star Game. Now getting a taste of NHL action, he’s proving he’s not far from making an impact at this level. With Jake Evans and Christian Dvorak both set to become UFAs, there could be a clear path for him next season.
Oliver Kapanen
Often overlooked by fans due to playing in Europe, Kapanen has been producing at a point-per-game pace in the defensively stingy SHL. The 21 year-old nearly made Montreal’s roster last fall, appearing in 12 games, and should be in the mix again next training camp. The question is whether he sticks at center or shifts to the wing.
Joshua Roy
Many penciled Roy into Montreal’s lineup this season, but a disappointing training camp derailed those plans. He remains one of Laval’s top offensive players—his compete level has been questioned at times, but his talent is undeniable. While I feel like he could be used as a trade chip, leaving him off this list wouldn’t be fair.
Rafaël Harvey-Pinard
At 26 years old with 84 NHL games under his belt, Harvey-Pinard is a long shot to be included here. But just as people prematurely counted out Brendan Gallagher, it would be a mistake to write off “Lavallagher” just yet.
DEFENSEMEN
Graduated this season: Lane Hutson
Logan Mailloux
Now in his second pro season, Mailloux has focused on refining his defensive game in Laval. Head coach Pascal Vincent has praised his progress, and while he remains Laval’s top offensive blueliner, he’s made sacrifices to become a more complete defenseman. Two AHL All-Star appearances in his first two years pro, fans should take notice. Expect him to push hard for an NHL spot.
David Reinbacher
After missing most of the season due to knee surgery, Reinbacher has returned to Laval and is showing steady improvement in his three games. While it wouldn’t be surprising to see him start next season in the AHL to regain his rhythm, his talent—evident from his selection at fifth overall—means he could prove ready sooner than expected.
Adam Engström
In his first North American season, Engström has been impressive with Laval, even momentarily surpassing Mailloux in the depth chart. Though he can play on the right side (which isn’t ideal), he faces stiff competition with Guhle, Hutson, Matheson, Xhekaj and Struble ahead of him. Still, ruling him out would be a mistake.
Reinbacher has been outstanding through two periods today. He is rounding into form quite quickly. He is plus 2 so far, and impactful in all three zones. I envision him cracking the Canadiens roster next fall.
— Grant McCagg (@mccagg.bsky.social) 2025-02-26T17:37:50.836Z
GOALTENDERS
Jakub Dobeš
Dobeš started his pro career strong but has slowed down, along with his playing time. We’ve seen how a lack of confidence from a coaching staff can stall a young goalie’s development—just ask Cayden Primeau. Hopefully, Dobeš avoids a similar fate and gets the opportunities he needs to grow.
Jacob Fowler
Much like Joshua Roy last offseason, many fans already have Fowler penciled into next year’s Canadiens roster. His NCAA numbers are outstanding, but as covered in a previous article, college success doesn’t always translate into immediate NHL readiness—especially for goaltenders. He should, however, turn pro next season and challenge other goaltenders in the organization.
ON THE CUSP
Some prospects are close but may need more time in Laval before competing for a spot in Montreal.
- Jared Davidson
- Florian Xhekaj
- Sean Farrell
- Filip Mesar
- William Trudeau
- Luke Tuch
DECISIONS AHEAD
As the trade deadline looms, Kent Hughes faces tough choices. With Laval in a strong playoff position, he’ll want to be mindful of how many prospects are called up, as disrupting the Rocket’s postseason push isn’t ideal. Striking the right balance between player development and team success will be key.
