The greatest draft night in Montreal Canadiens history…without a doubt…
The 2024 draft will remain etched in the memory of the Montreal Canadiens as one of the most memorable and successful evenings in its history.
Not only did the Habs select Ivan Demidov, considered by many to be the most talented player of this vintage, but they also chose Michael Hage, a young prospect compared to Kyle Connor whose personal story moved the community hockey.
Martin Lapointe, co-director of scouting for the Montreal Canadiens, said unequivocally that Demidov’s raw talent surpasses even that of Macklin Celebrini, considered one of hockey’s rising stars.
“Ivan has a unique blend of speed, finesse and game vision. He is a player who can change the course of a match single-handedly,” said Lapointe.
“He has tremendous potential, and we are confident that he will become a cornerstone for our team.”
Kent Hughes admitted that he didn’t go to Florida to see Demidov in order to hide his cards and send a message to the other GMs that he wasn’t as interested as he really was.
He added that his interview was the best he had ever seen in his life.
Michael Hage, on the other hand, is a story of emotional resilience and simply incredible courage.
The summer of 2023 should have been a time of preparation and anticipation for Michael Hage, who was preparing for the most important season of his young career.
But tragedy struck when his father, Alain, died suddenly in a swimming accident. Hage, a 6-foot-1, 187-pound right-handed center, endured a year marked by pain and adversity.
His father was not only his biggest supporter, but also his toughest critic. Born in Montreal and a resident of Ontario, Hage maintained deep roots in his hometown, including an abiding love of the Montreal Canadiens and a fluent command of French, which he regularly practices with his grandparents.
“My dad was always hard on me because he saw something in me that maybe I didn’t realize yet,” Hage said. “Looking back, I’m so grateful for that.”
He wears the 9…to honor his father…and Maurice Richard…
Despite the tragedy, Hage did not give in to the pain. Just days after losing his father, he was back in the gym, determined to honor his father’s memory by pursuing their shared dream.
“I never really thought about quitting. Playing hockey is my passion, and it’s what my dad wanted for me,” he explained.
“It allowed me to take my mind off things and keep moving forward.”
The start of the season with the Chicago Steel in the USHL was difficult, but Hage found the strength to turn his heartbreak into motivation.
He finished the season with 75 points in 54 games, ranking fourth in the league and confirming his status as a potential first-round pick.
Despite the pain of losing his father, Hage now focuses on the precious memories they shared, including times spent watching the Montreal Canadiens together.
The Canadian’s journey to the Stanley Cup final in 2021 remains an unforgettable memory.
“My dad, my brother and I were so excited. These are memories I will never forget,” he shared.
Her tears during the interview…broke and warmed our hearts at the same time…
With the selection of Ivan Demidov and Michael Hage, the Montreal Canadiens have not only secured their offensive future on the ice, but also demonstrated their commitment to talented young players as possible.
These “swag-filled” and inspiring picks promise to transform the team and give fans goosebumps for years to come.
The 2024 draft will forever be remembered as the night the Montreal Canadiens not only took a huge step in their rebuild, but also embraced stories of grit, determination and passion for hockey.
We are without words. We are in 7th heaven. And we bet Michael Hague’s father is so proud of his son…from heaven…
