Martin St-Louis has just sent a very clear message to the young hopeful of the organization

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Elias Edmonson
September 25, 2023 (3:52 PM)

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Although Logan Mailloux had a very tough game against the Buffalo Sabres' rookies, the 20-year-old defender recovered very well afterward. In fact, the Canadiens' prospect was one of the best players on the team during the numerous intrasquad games held last week, demonstrating his ease in supporting the attack.

However, despite his comfort in offensive territory, Martin St-Louis made some rather revealing comments about the first-round pick this morning. Indeed, the head coach of the Canadiens mentioned that Logan Mailloux must be better at choosing when to take risks in attack and must be more aware of his defensive duties.

"I want my players to play the game. They can't tell themselves: 'Tonight, I'm taking chances.' Playing with some risk is important, but it has to be calculated. What can it yield if you take that risk? You have to teach that to young players. Your risk calculation depends on the time and the score on the board. That comes into play. I know Mailloux is an offensive defender, but he has to be able to defend as well. And a defensive defender must be able to support the attack, too. We ask our players to play the game." - Martin St-Louis

There is no doubt that the former London Knights player has very interesting offensive skills. However, he will certainly have to improve his game in his own territory if he hopes to surprise and possibly secure a spot in Martin St-Louis' lineup this season.

This will be a perfect opportunity to see how the defender can perform against NHL players tonight, as he will face top forwards such as Jack Hughes, Tyler Toffoli, and Dawson Mercer.

Paired with Jordan Harris, Logan Mailloux will have an opportunity to demonstrate the full extent of his talent and continue to impress the management of the Bleu-Blanc-Rouge, hoping to extend his stay in Montreal.

Selected 31st overall in the 2021 draft, the young man is undoubtedly one of the most promising prospects of the Montreal organization. After a season of 77 points in 80 games in the OHL, the defender will make his debut in the professional ranks this season; it remains only to be seen whether it will be with the Montreal Canadiens or the Laval Rocket.

Credit: GoNordiques