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The Montreal Canadiens’ scouting team is gearing up for an insightful visit to the World Junior Hockey Championships in Ottawa. Expect to see key figures like Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton soaking in the action, as they navigate the prospects of tomorrow. Armed with two first-round picks, Hughes is on a mission to spot the standout talents at what many consider the pinnacle of junior hockey tournaments.

One player already capturing attention, even years shy of draft eligibility, is Gavin McKenna from Whitehorse, Yukon Territory. This young phenom, not available until the 2026 draft, has been dazzling crowds.

McKenna, who joined the Canadian Hockey League a year early at just 15, finished his rookie season with an impressive 34 goals, 63 assists, totaling 97 points over 61 games. Not only is he carving his path in hockey, but as a cousin of Connor Bedard, he’s also broadening a rich family legacy in the sport.

If Hughes could clinch McKenna now, the Canadiens would be adding a truly dynamic player. McKenna is a multi-talented athlete with outstanding shooting and puck skills, combined with the poise one might expect from a seasoned pro. While a bit of muscle might aid his physical game, McKenna exhibits a maturity that suggests he could transition to the NHL by October 2025.

But there’s plenty more talent to consider, as Hughes and Gorton will witness a gathering of top international prospects, sans a few standout Russians. The draft is shaping up to be loaded with intriguing talent, including a potential number-one center and a franchise-worthy defenseman. With two first-round selections—thanks to their own pick and another from the Sean Monahan trade with the Calgary Flames—Hughes is poised to leave the tournament with a clearer vision of which prospects could make the best fit for the Canadiens.

Now let’s dive into my top three draft-eligible players from the WJHC who would fit the Canadiens’ needs like a glove. These insights are grounded in highlights and scouting reports, focusing on those who could potentially enhance the Habs’ roster.

While Montreal may be covered on the defense end, one standout defenseman has made the list, with the others being promising forwards. These forwards have the potential to slot into either top-six or, at the very least, top-nine roles for Montreal’s future.

While currently only Sweden’s Rasmus Bergqvist represents Montreal as their defensive prospect in the tournament, his skill set speaks volumes. A quieter presence on the ice, Bergqvist exemplifies the creed that a defensive defenseman often plays best when not drawing attention, allowing his steady play to bolster Sweden’s backline effectively.