Hughes and the Canadiens Struck Gold With a Forward Who'd Go Top 10 Today, Says Insider

Several experts expected him to go a bit earlier, so Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton didn't hesitate long before picking the right-handed center, who just had an excellent season with the Michigan Wolverines in the NCAA.

That said, as reported by the site DansLesCoulisses, if Michael Hage were part of the 2025 draft class, he would be selected much earlier than 21st overall.

At least, that's what insider Marco D'Amico stated during the podcast The Shaun Starr Show.

That's excellent news!

We recommend the full episode, but that was definitely a standout moment.

D'Amico also praised the Canadiens organization for landing a prospect whose value has significantly risen over the past few months.

As we know, the Canadiens hold the 16th and 17th overall picks in the upcoming draft, and some fans hope Hughes and Gorton will use one of those selections to acquire a much-needed top-six forward.

And what if Michael Hage were involved in a trade along with one of those first-round picks?

That option has been considered several times by many experts, but the fact that the 19-year-old has decided to play another year at the collegiate level could deter some teams from acquiring him.