MINNEAPOLIS | When we think of the future of the Montreal Canadiens on the blue line, we obviously think of Lane Hutson, Logan Mailloux, David Reinbacher or Adam Engstrom, but very little of Luke Mittelstadt. And that’s a mistake, assures his coach with the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers, Bob Motzko.
Mittelstadt, a lowly seventh-round pick by the Canadiens in 2023, is in his third season in the NCAA.
In ten games, he collected three assists.
“He is incredibly strong physically,” Motzko complimented him, met by The Journal in his office at the 3M Arena in Mariucci on Wednesday. He could play the whole match because he doesn’t get tired. He’s becoming a complete defenseman and even if his stats are a little low compared to the last two years, it doesn’t reflect his game. I think he has a real chance to play in the NHL.
Luke Mittelstadt – Photo fournie by Minnesota Athletics
Indeed, Mittelstadt is not having an offensive start to the season that matches his first two seasons, during which he had campaigns of 21 and 20 points in 38 games.
“He plays at a very, very high level. It is impossible to take the puck away from him. We have a very good defensive squad and Luke has nothing to envy of any of our defenders,” adds Motzko, who also counts on the first round pick of the Chicago Blackhawks Sam Rinzel and the second round pick of the Washington Capitals Ryan Chesley, on the blue line.
Complete player
Motzko is not the first coach to praise one of his players, you might say.
It’s true.
However, with the numbers to back it up, the coach is right about one thing: Mittelstadt is one of the most reliable defenders on his team as he comes first in several defensive categories, according to data obtained by Sportlogiq, including the total number of successful defensive plays and the amount of passes blocked.
“I have matured a lot in recent years,” admitted the 21-year-old defender. I no longer make erratic plays like I did at the beginning and I feel calmer on the ice. I’m also stronger, which helps on every level.”
A contract in sight?
Mittelstadt had just completed his age 19 season when he was claimed by the Canadian. At that time, the CH co-director of recruitment, Martin Lapointe, mentioned: “He is a little older so we will be able to have him a little faster.”
CH will have another year before having to decide whether to sign the young American defender or not. But Mittelstadt is in no hurry. The Gophers are off to one of the best starts to a season in the NCAA, with a record of nine wins and one loss, and that’s where his focus is.
Luke Mittelstadt (left) and Michael Hage during the Canadiens’ last development camp last July. – Photo Agence QMI, JOËL LEMAY
“Sometimes I think about it, but mostly I try to enjoy the experience I’m currently having since I know that, when it’s over, I’m going to miss certain elements. On the other hand, it’s certain that if I one day have the chance to be a Montreal Canadian, I would be very happy,” assures the man who speaks with the director of development of the CH, Rob Ramage, once or twice a year. month.
And, like his coach, he believes in his chances of following in the footsteps of his brother, Casey, and becoming a Bettman Tour player.
“I’m a mature player, I don’t make a lot of mistakes, I’m good defensively and efficient when leaving the zone. I think these are qualities that will allow me to become a professional player one day.
