100-Point Forward Sends Subtle Message to Kent Hughes and the Canadiens Ahead of the Draft

Kent Hughes and the rest of the organization will select at 16th and 17th overall, and it's still unknown whether one of those picks will be traded to acquire reinforcements or to move up earlier in the first round.

But for the sake of this exercise, let's assume the Canadiens keep both the 16th and 17th overall picks and select young prospects.

There's been a lot of talk about Carter Bear, Justin Carbonneau, Cameron Reid, and Malcom Spence, but there's one Western Hockey League prospect who deserves close attention.

As reported by TVA Sports journalist Nicolas Cloutier, the Canadiens have met with forward Benjamin Kindel, and according to Kindel himself, he would have no hesitation in wearing the Montreal Canadiens uniform.

Kindel just had an outstanding season with the Calgary Hitmen in the WHL, putting up 99 points, including 35 goals in 65 games.

He finished second among the top scorers in the Western Hockey League.

Ranked 27th on the latest list from TSN hockey analyst Craig Button, the 5-foot-10 center could be an intriguing target for the Canadiens despite his smaller frame.

Picking him at 16 or 17 could be considered a risk for the organization, but if Kindel slips into the second round, Kent Hughes might be tempted to take a chance on him.