After losing his father, Michael Hage was selected by the Montreal Canadiens at 21st place.
Needless to say, the Montreal Canadiens were a team dear to his father, Alain, who was a fervent supporter of the Montreal club.
A 6-foot-1, 192-pound right-handed center, he has offensive talent in his blood. He has the best hands in the draft.
The move not only represents a milestone in Michael’s career, but also an emotional way to honor his father. He had tears in his eyes as he spoke to TSN about his dad.
Michael Hage has worked his way up the hockey ladder with determination, despite the challenges that have come his way.
The son of Rania and Alain Hage, two Montrealers at heart, Michael benefited from a unique family support system. His father, Alain, played the role of the stern father, constantly pointing out areas for improvement after each game, while his mother, Rania, provided encouragement and comfort. This dynamic forged Michael’s character and resilience.
However, his life was turned upside down by tragedy last summer when his father died in a swimming pool accident.
This came after a difficult first season in the USHL with the Chicago Steel, marked by a shoulder injury that required surgery and limited him to just 13 games.
Despite this emotional shock, Michael managed to concentrate and excel on the ice. At age 17, during his draft season, he quickly emerged as one of the best players and scorers in the USHL.
The performance earned him a spot at the University of Michigan for the 2024-25 season and a surge in the NHL draft rankings.
TSN chief scout Craig Button describes him as a dominant player with immense potential, comparing his playing style to that of Kyle Connor, but bigger.
This season, Michael demonstrated not only his natural talent, but also an incredible ability to overcome adversity, solidifying his place among the NHL’s top prospects.
The selection of Michael by the Montreal Canadiens is particularly significant. It allows him to pay tribute to his father, who played a crucial role in his development and who was a big fan of the team.
Thanks to his father’s sacrifices and unconditional support, Michael was able to realize his full potential, turning opportunities into success.
Michael Hage, who speaks French fluently, is the perfect candidate for the Montreal Canadiens. By joining the Montreal Canadiens, he brings not only his talent on the ice but also a story of resilience and determination worthy of the film.
His inspiring journey makes him a key player for the team. By paying tribute to his father, he begins a new phase of his career with the same passion and determination that brought him here. Martin St-Louis will take good care of him.
This selection marks the start of a new chapter for Michael, where he can continue to grow and honor the memory of his father while pursuing his dream of playing in the NHL.
We have tears in our eyes.
