The recent rookie camp featuring some of the Montreal Canadiens’ most promising prospects wrapped up with two games against the Toronto Maple Leafs’ rookies. While the young Habs lost both games, those who watched closely would agree that the Canadiens outperformed their opponents in most areas—except goaltending.
Toronto had their top AHL goalie in the lineup, while the Canadiens opted to leave Jakub Dobes out. An injury to Quinton Miller put Montreal in a tough spot, forcing them to dress two lesser-known goaltenders. Additionally, the Leafs had nine players over the age of 22, including two who were 24, whereas the Canadiens fielded just two players aged 23.
At even strength, the baby-Habs dominated much of the play but struggled on the penalty kill and allowed a few questionable goals. That, ultimately, was the deciding factor in both games, when looking solely at the score.
With that context, here are three players who, in my view, really stood out during those two games. Let’s break them down, in order:
1- Logan Mailloux
The Canadiens’ 2021 first-round pick (31st overall) showed no signs of rust despite limited playing time during the pandemic seasons. Mailloux was named to represent Laval Rocket at the AHL All-Star game last year and made the AHL All-Rookie team. Standing at 6-foot-3 and 212 lbs, the defenseman also wore the captain’s “C” for both rookie camp games, demonstrating the team’s confidence in him. His poise, positioning, and puck movement were impressive, and he frequently supported the offense. He also jumped in the defend his defense partner Lane Hutson after a questionable high hit. The Canadiens’ development staff, including Rob Ramage, Francis Bouillon, and Paul Byron, have praised Mailloux as the prospect closest to being NHL-ready, and his performance in this mini-series reinforced that belief. He now needs to maintain this level of play at the main camp, where he is a strong contender for a spot on the Canadiens’ roster.
2- Adam Engström
As predicted by those who had been following him closely in Europe, Engström didn’t disappoint. The 2022 third-round pick (92nd overall) displayed composure and maturity well beyond his 20 years. At 6-foot-2 and 190 lbs, he played like a veteran, with precise passing and calm puck handling. His ability to join the rush at the right times was notable. While there’s been plenty of talk in Montreal about other defensemen like Kaiden Guhle, Mike Matheson, Arber Xhekaj, Jayden Struble and Lane Hutson, Engström shouldn’t be overlooked. With two seasons in the SHL playing against seasoned professionals, he has clearly made strides and could be an important piece of the Canadiens’ future defense.
3- Tyler Thorpe
Thorpe was the biggest surprise of the rookie camp for me. Drafted just a few months ago in the fifth round (130th overall), we knew he was a big player at 6-foot-5 and 212 lbs, but his foot speed and skill with the puck were unexpected. The Richmond, BC native had a couple of goals, played a physical game on a line with Luke Tuch and Florian Xhekaj, and showed solid hockey sense. Since he is 19,
the Canadiens could decide to send him to Laval instead of returning to junior with the Vancouver Giants in the WHL (correct me if I’m wrong). Either way, his performance here has opened a lot of people’s eyes and when it comes to prospects, he is now a very interesting one.
Now, some might argue that Lane Hutson should have made the top three, and that’s a valid opinion. While the speedy defenseman had a solid rookie camp, he found himself out of position a few times, which indicates there’s still work to be done before he can secure a full-time NHL role.
As for David Reinbacher, the Canadiens’ top pick in 2023, while he didn’t make this top-3 list, it’s not due to a lack of talent. He played solid, smart hockey but isn’t the flashy type. His calm, cerebral approach to the game may not be as eye-catching as Hutson or even Mailloux, but it’s certainly effective and it translates very well to the NHL.
Keep in mind, this is just one perspective, and opinions will vary. Rookie camp is just the beginning, and final roster decisions will be made after the main camp. For now, hockey is back—enjoy the ride, Habs fans!
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