Though many Habs fans see the potential in Charles Hudon, he was only entered into the lineup for three games with the Montreal Canadiens during the 2015-16 season. At 5’10”, he may not intimidate with his size, but his hockey IQ will leave you absolutely speechless.
Hudon’s first game with the Canadiens was versus the Detroit Red Wings in December, and he registered his first career NHL point, an assist, the same night. He also managed his second NHL assist in his second game, matching the feat of Sven Andrighetto the previous season. Hudon saw most of his brief stint alongside rookies Andrighetto and Daniel Carr.
Despite Hudon’s minimal playing time in Montreal, he once again proved why he is one of the organization’s most exciting prospects, putting on an impressive performance with the St. John’s IceCaps. In his 66 games in the AHL, Hudon produced 28 goals and 25 assists, marking the second consecutive year he has surpassed the 50-point mark in the minor leagues.
The fact that Hudon can play equally well at centre (where he has spent the majority of his career) and left wing (switched partway through the season) shows just how versatile the youngster is. He has the ability to beat a goaltender with a solid slap shot from the point or an in-tight deke to cap off a beautiful breakaway opportunity. It is this ability that allows him to dictate the pace of the game as soon as the puck is on his stick.
One thing I have been monitoring with Hudon is his shooting percentage and shots generated per game. He experienced a large drop once he graduated from the QMJHL to the AHL, which was to be expected when moving to a professional league.
Over the last season, Hudon appeared to be more comfortable in his offensive game, showing a sharp increase in his sophomore year, launching a team-high 181 shots on goal for an average of 2.7 shots per game. That, coupled with a shooting percentage of 15.9% (up from 11.5% the year prior), allowed Hudon to press for the 30-goal milestone over the last few games of the season.
These impressive numbers were all achieved amidst continually rotating lines and a tough overall season for St. John’s, who lost many players to call-ups when injuries depleted the NHL roster. Initially moved to the left to serve as wingman for Michael McCarron‘s transition to centre, Hudon ultimately ended up being centred by Nikita Scherbak, and the duo was dangerous nearly every time it stepped onto the ice.
There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that this talented, young forward deserves a look at a more permanent position with Montreal next season. The question is: does the coaching staff see it, too?
Grade Hudon’s season
| A+ | 57 |
| A | 128 |
| B+ | 52 |
| B | 7 |
| C | 2 |
| D | 1 |
| F | 0 |
