As you know, the 21st overall pick in 2024 is currently playing his first season in the American college ranks.
While some journalists expected Michael Hage to need a few games to adjust to the level of play in the NCAA, the main player proved, in the first game of the year, that he could already establish himself as a top forward with the Michigan Wolverines.
Although he has only played nine games, Michael Hage has clearly demonstrated that he has offensive skills that are well above average. His vision of the game as well as his puck handling make him a constant threat in the offensive zone, as evidenced by his five goals and four assists so far.
In fact, the forward has been so dominant since the start of the season that Simon Boisvert believes he could potentially sign his entry-level contract this year to join the Montreal Canadiens after his university season.
Personally, I think it's important to be patient with the 18-year-old center, so as not to skip any steps in his development. However, seeing Jake Evans play on the second unit, I can't help but think about what a true offensive player like Michael Hage could do alongside one of the NHL's top scorers, Cole Caufield.
Questioned by Marco D'Amico on the subject, the Habs prospect mentioned that he wanted to focus on his season above all else in order to help the Michigan Wolverines win a championship, adding that he would evaluate the situation more seriously in due course.
Now that's interesting!
He clearly doesn't seem closed to the idea of possibly joining the organization this season, but he mostly wants to focus on his game and what he can bring to his team in the coming months.
Since his NCAA debut, the Michigan Wolverines forward has recorded five goals and four assists (nine points) in nine games.
POLL | ||
Should the Canadiens offer him a contract this season? | ||
Yes | 115 | 70.6 % |
No | 48 | 29.4 % |
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