With a 2-1 win over the Ottawa Senators, the Montreal Canadiens ended their 2023 rookie showcase with a winning record. Though this far from guarantees a winning record for them in the real season, seeing some of their prospects fare well against those of division rivals should at least offer some excitement for the fan base.
William Trudeau was arguably the most impressive player for the Habs against the Sens, showing excellent poise with the puck.
Good things were happening every time he touched the puck, whether it was deep in his own zone or at the other end.
He looks legitimately quicker than he has in years prior, and his puck handling appears to have taken a significant step forward as well. After putting up 27 points with the Laval Rocket last year, he looks poised to take on a bigger role this season, and could potentially be in line for a breakout year in the AHL. While spots on the Habs’ blue line are quite limited, a breakout year with the Rocket could go a long way to earning him a shot with the big club at some point.
Riley Kidney, another likely Laval-bound player, had easily his best game of the showcase. After winning a board battle in the second period, he curled into the middle with the puck and wired home the tying goal.
This was a key part of Kidney’s success in the QMJHL last season; focusing on taking the puck to the middle of the ice more often. As he is a player with a slighter frame, it will be interesting to follow his progression and see how he can apply this against professionals in the AHL.
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