Montreal Canadiens fans have plenty to be excited about when it comes to their 2024 first-round pick, and his sophomore season at the University of Michigan is only reinforcing that optimism.
Through 24 games this season, the 19-year-old forward has racked up 12 goals and 20 assists for 32 points, all while posting a plus-11 rating. That kind of production isn’t just a step forward-it’s a clear sign he’s evolving into a more complete player.
For context, he tallied 13 goals and 34 points in 33 games as a freshman last season. So not only is he scoring at a higher rate, but he’s also showing more consistency and maturity in his game.
And now, he’s getting recognized for it on a national level.
The Canadiens prospect has been named one of the nominees for the Hobey Baker Award, given annually to the top player in NCAA men’s hockey. It’s no small honor-just being included among the 87 names in contention speaks volumes about the impression he’s making this season.
What’s stood out in his game isn’t just the points, though those certainly help. It’s the way he’s impacting play in all three zones.
His plus-11 rating reflects the kind of responsible two-way play coaches love, and it’s something NHL organizations pay close attention to when evaluating young talent. He’s not just lighting up the scoresheet-he’s helping his team win in tangible ways.
For the Canadiens, this is exactly what you want to see from a top prospect. He’s not only living up to the expectations that come with being a first-round pick, he’s pushing the ceiling higher. His combination of skill, vision, and hockey IQ is translating well at the collegiate level, and if this trajectory continues, it’s easy to envision him playing a significant role in Montreal’s lineup down the road.
At just 19, he’s already showing the kind of poise and production that hints at a bright NHL future. The Hobey Baker nomination is a well-earned milestone-and likely just the first of many accolades to come.