TWO future playmakers end up with the Canadiens in NHL Mock Draft 3.0

We’re heading into the “just over” two weeks out phase from the 2024 NHL Draft, and with that comes yet another mock draft simulation from FC Hockey. While I have played the role of general manager Kent Hughes twice already, in Mock Drafts 1.0 and 2.0, this latest version may be my best one yet, with not one, but TWO playmakers going to the Montreal Canadiens with the first pair of picks. 

So, are you ready to find out which players fell to me at No. 5 and No. 26 overall? Hint, they’re two forwards, both of whom have outstanding playmaking skills already. But I also went with a blend of younger and older prospects overall, high-potential picks, those who carry a lot of size, and also players who don’t possess as much size. 

Berkly Catton was an easy pick here and someone who should be on Kent Hughes’ radar when June 28th arrives. Catton can be a dynamic scorer and an elite passer, and his game is far from one-dimensional. He would be an epic pick who Habs fans won’t need to wait long to see grace the NHL ice, even if it wouldn’t happen this season. 

Michael Hage will be one to watch when he goes off to play college hockey at the University of Michigan. After seeing just 13 regular season games in 2022-23 for the Chicago Steel, Hage returned in 2023-24 and put up 75 points and 33 goals, showing us that even if his freshman year with the Wolverines doesn’t go as planned, fear not. If Hage ends up going to Montreal with the No. 26 pick, he’s yet another player the fans should be happy to see in the system. 

Yep, we’re continuing with the forwards theme here, this time with Kamil Bednarik of Boston University. With decent size and defensive play that matches his offense, the Canadiens couldn’t go wrong here if he falls to the 57th overall slot.