The future in Montreal isn’t just bright - it’s already shining. Three young Canadiens - Lane Hutson, Ivan Demidov, and Juraj Slafkovsky - have earned spots on The Hockey News’ Top 100 Hockey Players 21-And-Under list, and their placements aren’t just a nod to potential. They’re a reflection of performance, poise, and promise that’s already translating at the NHL level.
Let’s start with Lane Hutson, who comes in at No. 5 - and frankly, it’s hard to argue with that ranking. The 20-year-old blueliner didn’t just have a good rookie season in 2024-25; he had a Calder Trophy-winning one.
Hutson racked up 66 points in 82 games, including six goals and a staggering 60 assists. That kind of production from the back end is rare, especially for a first-year defenseman.
But what’s even more impressive is that he hasn’t slowed down. Through 23 games this season, he’s already added 19 more points to his resume, with three goals and 16 assists.
His vision, skating, and puck movement continue to drive Montreal’s offense from the blue line, and he’s quickly becoming one of the league’s most dynamic young defensemen.
Right behind him on the list at No. 7 is Ivan Demidov, and Canadiens fans are already seeing why the hype was justified. The skilled forward has wasted no time making his mark, putting up five goals and 18 points in his first 23 NHL games.
He’s also riding a bit of a hot streak, with five points in his last five outings. Demidov brings a high-end offensive toolkit - slick hands, quick feet, and a scorer’s mentality - but what’s standing out early is how well he’s adapting to the NHL pace.
He’s not just surviving; he’s producing, and doing so with consistency.
Then there’s Juraj Slafkovsky, who lands at No. 17.
The 2022 first-overall pick has had a more gradual development curve, but he’s showing signs of putting it all together. Through 23 games this season, the big winger has notched seven goals and 12 points.
That comes on the heels of a breakout campaign in 2024-25, where he tallied 18 goals and a career-best 51 points in 79 games. Slafkovsky is starting to find his identity as a power forward who can drive play, finish in tight, and use his size to create space.
At just 21, there’s still plenty of room for growth - and that’s what makes his ranking all the more intriguing. He’s producing now, but the ceiling remains high.
What’s clear from these rankings is that Montreal isn’t just collecting young talent - they’re developing it into impact players. Hutson is already anchoring the blue line, Demidov is injecting skill into the top six, and Slafkovsky is evolving into the kind of physical, skilled winger every team covets.
For a franchise that’s been in rebuild mode in recent years, this trio represents more than just hope. They’re the foundation. And if their early performances are any indication, the Canadiens are building something real - and something that could be very dangerous in the years to come.