Michigan freshman center Michael Hage was not among those invited to Canada’s World Junior camp, to the surprise of many Habs fans, and even some NHL scouts.
“Wow. He deserved a look,” said one NHL amateur scout. “He’s been great.”
That he has. Hage has nine goals in his first 13 college games, which is the fourth-best goals per game mark in the nation. Matthew Wood, who was invited (again) and is 19, has four goals in 16 games for Minnesota.
“He should definitely have been invited,” noted another scout. “They think he’s not responsible enough, but I have seen him since, and he’s much better.”
Hage will be eligible for next year’s event, and a strong bet to make the squad. Hockey Canada has traditionally favoured 19-year-olds over younger players.
Here are the invites:
.
