Hughes and the Canadiens May Have Struck a Jackpot at the Last Draft with the Selection of Michael Hage

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L. Honein
November 30, 2024 (1:03)

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Among the most promising prospects for the Montreal Canadiens, one player is currently dominating in American college hockey.

While many fans are focused on a certain Ivan Demidov, Michael Hage should not be overlooked.

Selected 21st overall during the last draft held in June in Las Vegas, the tall right-handed center is proving Kent Hughes right for selecting him with his second first-round pick.

Hage, who is 18 years old, is playing his first season with the University of Michigan Wolverines in the NCAA and is making a significant impression, having just had a remarkable weekend.

Michael Hage Emerging as a Steal of the 2024 NHL Draft

In two games against Penn State University, he tallied a total of seven points, including three goals and four assists, highlighted by a five-point performance in the second game.

Here's one of the goals he scored during the past weekend.

Not only is Michael Hage proving the Canadiens organization right, but he's also one of the top scorers in the NCAA with 18 points in 11 games so far this season.

He even surpasses James Hagens, who plays for Boston College and is considered by many experts to be the top prospect for the upcoming NHL draft.

With such performances, it wouldn't be surprising if the 18-year-old receives a call from Kent Hughes for a tryout with the big club at the end of the season, even though there's no rush in his case.

However, some observers already see him in Montreal at the start of the 2025-2026 season, meaning he could make his debut with the Montreal Canadiens at the same time as a certain Ivan Demidov.

Earlier this month, Hage openly admitted to modeling his game after none other than Jack Eichel. If he can come anywhere close to emulating Eichel, it would be a jackpot for Hughes and the Habs