The Montreal Canadiens’ rebuild is no longer just about stockpiling assets; it’s about watching those assets turn into legitimate NHL pieces. As of February 2026, the Habs’ prospect pool remains one of the strongest in the league, with talent spread across multiple leagues and development paths. From high-upside swings to near-NHL-ready contributors, here’s a look at Montreal’s top 10 prospects.
10. Hayden Paupanekis
Hayden Paupanekis continues to be one of the more intriguing long-term projects in Montreal’s system. What stands out most is how quickly his raw tools are starting to translate into tangible results. His blend of size and speed gives him a physical edge, while his improving puck skills have allowed him to contribute offensively more consistently. As of February 2026, Paupanekis has 28 points in 36 games for the Kelowna Rockets in the Western Hockey League (WHL), while also playing a decent two-way game.
9. Bryce Pickford
Bryce Pickford’s rise has been nothing short of impressive. The right-shot defenceman has been outstanding with the Medicine Hat Tigers, putting up 33 goals and 62 points in 42 games, elite numbers for a blueliner at the junior level. Even more impressive is the context. Pickford sits third in the entire WHL in goals, despite missing a few games recently due to injury. His offensive instincts, shot selection, and confidence with the puck have taken major strides. While his defensive game still needs polish, his offensive upside from the back end gives Montreal something rare in their system.
8. Aatos Koivu
Carrying the Koivu name comes with expectations, and Aatos has handled them well. A smart, two-way forward, Koivu’s biggest strength is his hockey IQ. He reads plays efficiently, supports the puck well, and rarely looks out of place in high-tempo situations. While he may not project as a top-line scorer, his versatility and responsible play make him a strong candidate for a bottom-six NHL role down the line. Coaches love players like Koivu, and that alone gives him a strong chance to stick.
7. Owen Beck
Owen Beck remains one of the safest prospects in the Canadiens’ system. His game is built on reliability, structure, and detail. A strong faceoff presence with excellent defensive awareness, Beck projects as a classic third-line centre who can handle tough matchups. While his offensive ceiling may not be elite, his ability to play in all situations gives him significant NHL value. He’s the type of player who may not grab headlines, but coaches trust when games tighten up.
6. LJ Mooney
LJ Mooney brings flair to Montreal’s prospect pool. Creative, shifty, and dangerous in transition, Mooney’s offensive instincts are undeniable. His ability to create space for himself and others makes him a constant threat. Size remains the obvious concern, but Mooney’s skill level and competitiveness help offset that limitation. If he continues to add strength and improve his play away from the puck, he could develop into a dynamic middle-six offensive weapon.
5. Alexander Zharovsky
Alexander Zharovsky’s production in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) at such a young age is impossible to ignore. With 36 points in 44 games as an 18-year-old forward, he has shown he can not only survive but thrive against professional competition. His puck protection, vision, and composure stand out, especially considering the league he’s playing in. While the transition to North American ice will be a key step, Zharovsky’s skill set suggests top-six potential if his development continues on its current trajectory.
Related: Noah Dobson’s Impact on the Canadiens so Far This Season
4. Adam Engström
Adam Engström has quietly solidified himself as one of Montreal’s most reliable defensive prospects. Mobile, composed, and strong positionally, he has shown he can handle tougher assignments while still contributing offensively. His skating allows him to close gaps quickly, and his decision-making has improved significantly. His steady progression points toward a dependable NHL defenceman who can play meaningful minutes.
3. David Reinbacher
David Reinbacher’s season has been about growth and resilience. While expectations were sky-high for the 2023 fifth-overall pick, his development path has been more gradual. That said, his defensive instincts, reach, and physical maturity remain elite. Reinbacher projects as a shutdown defender capable of playing against top competition. Once his confidence and assertiveness fully return, he will have all the tools to become a cornerstone on Montreal’s blue line.
2. Jacob Fowler
Jacob Fowler has firmly established himself as Montreal’s goalie of the future. His calm demeanour, technical efficiency, and consistency set him apart. Fowler tracks the puck extremely well and rarely looks rattled, even under heavy pressure. Goaltenders take time, but everything about Fowler’s game suggests a legitimate NHL starter, and possibly more, if his development stays on course.
1. Michael Hage
At the top of the list sits Michael Hage, and it’s hard to argue otherwise. Hage’s offensive production, pace, and all-around game have separated him from the pack. He combines skill with competitiveness, drives play consistently, and shows flashes of top-line centre potential. His progression has been rapid, and he continues to check every box Montreal looks for in a franchise forward. As of February 2026, Hage is the Canadiens’ most exciting prospect, and the future looks bright.
The challenge for Montreal moving forward will be timing, knowing when to let prospects develop patiently and when to push them into NHL roles. If managed properly, this group has the potential to form the backbone of a sustainable contender rather than a short-lived peak. One thing is clear: the Canadiens are no longer just rebuilding. They are preparing for what comes next.
