Acquisition made by Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens: the CH management has acquired an excellent defenseman in William Trudeau

PUBLICATION

Julien Trekker
September 2, 2023 (9:35)

SHARE THIS STORY

Although the Montreal Canadiens' roster is nearly complete for the 2023-2024 season, several young prospects in the organization could cause a huge surprise during training camp, thus forcing management to keep them on the team until the very last second.

While most observers primarily mention David Reinbacher, Lane Hutson, Logan Mailloux, and even Adam Engstrom as the next defensemen to carve out a spot with the senior team, one name to watch closely in the coming weeks is the 20-year-old Quebec defenseman, William Trudeau. He experienced rapid growth with the Laval Rocket last year.

In his first season in the professional ranks, the former Charlottetown Islanders player quickly became a cornerstone in Jean-François Houle's lineup. Being one of the most utilized defensemen in 2022-2023, William Trudeau played a key role in power plays and also in penalty kills, demonstrating to the Canadiens' management that he has a very promising future.

"William Trudeau is probably the rookie who has made the most progress over the course of a season in six years with the Rocket. He gained a lot of confidence as the year went on. One day, he will establish himself in the NHL, I am convinced of it," said Anthony Martineau.

Taking advantage of numerous injuries on the Rocket's blue line, the Varennes native seized the opportunity to become a top-tier player, making himself indispensable to his coach. He collected 7 goals and 20 assists (27 points) in 60 games, ranking first among the team's defensemen in scoring.

Assistant coach Kelly Buchberger also had nothing but praise for the young defenseman, noting that he is confident Trudeau will earn a spot in the NHL in the coming years. It's also important to consider that the Canadiens' prospect has gained significant experience for a 20-year-old, being one of the youngest defensemen in the American league.

"It's a joy to coach him. He plays with heart and intensity. He backs down from no one and has great skills. He has a chance to play in the NHL one day. I have no doubt about it," said Kelly Buchberger. "It's great for an organization to see a player his age [20 years] progress this way. His hard work has been rewarded with time on the power play."

Even if fans will have their eyes on several young players in the organization this season, it's safe to bet that Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton will be paying close attention to William Trudeau's performances. It will be very interesting to follow his development this year, as he will undoubtedly be a crucial element in Laval's defense.

Drafted in the 4th round in 2021, the defenseman could turn out to be a real steal for the Montreal Canadiens if he continues his progression.

Credits: Habs et LNH