CH: Three hopefuls who are going under the radar

Al-Kindi has filled the bank of hopes in recent years. The names of Lynn Hutson, David Reinbacher, Owen Beck and company are known to all. But what about those who go under the radar?

Pool Pro magazine has listed three candidates in the CH organization who deserve close monitoring.

Lock Touch

A second round selection to the Canadiens in 2020, Tuch will play a fourth season this year in the AUC ranks with Boston University.

“He’s a solid forward with an offensive touch who’s capable of making room for his more talented teammates. If he can emulate his brother Alex, who plays for the Sabers, he could become an important asset for CH,” notes TVA Sports analyst Alexandre Picard.

Last season, Toch had 20 points in 40 NCAA games.

William Trudeau

The defender caught the eye last season with the Laval Rocket, after a very exciting stint in the QMJHL.

Trudeau, who was drafted by the Canadiens in the fourth round in 2021, scored 27 points in 60 games last year in the American League.

“In another organization, he would probably be closer to the NHL, but since the Canadians have hands full of promising young defenders, he continues his development in the shadows,” explains Jonathan Bernier of the Journal de Montreal.

Adam Engstrom

The Swede led all defense players under the age of 20 last season in the Swedish Elite League, with 16 points in 43 games.

A third-round pick in 2022, the Rögle fullback is a good size and handles the puck well.

“He’s a smart, quick defender. Rögle still has another season in Sweden, but he could come next year,” writes Jean-François Chaumont of the Journal de Montreal.