The Montreal Canadiens have been busy nurturing a deep pool of prospects, and some lesser-known names are starting to make waves this season. Let's dive into the performances that are turning heads and elevating their stock within the organization.
Alexis Cournoyer (G, Cornell, NCAA): Entering the season as a bit of an unknown, Cournoyer has quickly made a name for himself. After a standout second half in the QMJHL last year, he's proving his mettle at a higher level.
Now the starting goalie for Cornell, he's been the second-best netminder in the ECAC, a conference not known for high scoring. His trajectory is promising, and it won't be long before 'sleeper pick' becomes a common tag for Cournoyer.
Emmett Croteau (G, Dartmouth, NCAA): Sharing similarities with Cournoyer, Croteau has also taken the starting role in the ECAC. His junior year has been a revelation, with a top 15 save percentage in Division I.
After a quiet start to his college career, Croteau has emerged as a prospect to watch. With the option to deregister and become a free agent this summer, the Habs will be keen to keep an eye on his progress.
L.J. Mooney (F, Minnesota, NCAA): Coming off a strong stint with the US NTDP, Mooney faced questions about his size and ability to produce in college.
He's answered those by becoming one of the leading scorers for the Golden Gophers, showcasing his playmaking skills against tougher competition. While his size will always be a talking point, Mooney's current performance is hard to criticize.
Bryce Pickford (D, Medicine Hat, WHL): Pickford is turning heads with an offensive performance that surpasses last season's breakout. Before an injury sidelined him, he was among the WHL's top scorers, not just among defensemen. While his defensive game needs polishing, Pickford has earned his entry-level contract and is one of Montreal’s most intriguing prospects.
Logan Sawyer (F, Providence, NCAA): After a quiet freshman year, Sawyer bulked up and returned stronger. He's already doubled last season's goal tally and is competing for the team lead in scoring. Sawyer's resurgence this season has restored and even enhanced his prospect status.
Yevgeni Volokhin (G, Khimik, VHL): Volokhin has bounced back from a tough season with KHL Sochi, dominating at the VHL level. His performance suggests he’s ready for another KHL opportunity, although depth at Spartak might delay that. Signed overseas through 2027-28, Volokhin remains a long-term project, but his current form is encouraging.
These prospects are carving out their paths, and the Canadiens' future looks bright with these potential stars in the making.