Kent Hughes about to repeat a successful scenario like Juraj Slafkovsky

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David St-Jean
June 8, 2024 (11:11)

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We must admit, Kent Hughes and the Canadiens' management were right in selecting Juraj Slafkovsky first overall in 2022.

Many fans were skeptical, including myself, but the organization always believed in Slaf, and they were right. They always said he was the best player for the future.

Although it's only been two years, it's clear that no one from that draft year is even close to Slafkovsky in terms of physical conditioning and two-way talent.

In 2022, the Canadiens selected another Slovak, Juraj's friend, Filip Mesar. The scenario could very well repeat itself, and we have a good hint thanks to Anthony Martineau, who is covering the Combine in Buffalo.

Andrew Basha, a teammate of Cayden Lindstrom, is strongly considered by the Habs. Lindstrom, as we know, is likely to go top 5, and the Canadiens should not hesitate to select him if he's available.

Then, with the 26th overall pick, they could repeat the 2022 experience and draft Lindstrom's good friend and teammate, Andrew Basha.

«Andrew Basha was interviewed by the Habs here in Buffalo. Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton attended the meeting, which they haven't done for all the prospects.

The Habs (scouts) also met Andrew in person this year.»

- Anthony Martineau, TVA Sports

The enthusiasm seems real, and Basha has a little something going for him, besides being a very good hockey player with 85 points, including 30 goals in 63 games this season.

«Andrew Basha speaks French very well. His mother is from New Brunswick, and the young man attended a French-speaking school for several years.

�I would already be comfortable in Montreal!' Basha said with a laugh.»

- Anthony Martineau

Andrew Basha: �I see myself as an elite player in the NHL. I like to compare my style to those of Kyle Connor and Jordan Kyrou.'

- Via Anthony Martineau, TVA Sports

It would be quite extraordinary if the Canadiens could get their hands on a player like Kyle Connor, who is a member of the 40-goal club in the NHL.

For the skeptics, here is finally what Basha had to say about his teammate and highly coveted Cayden Lindstrom.

Andrew Basha on Cayden Lindstrom: �He's a beast. Honestly, he's ready for the NHL. He's also a wonderful guy.'

It certainly helps when one of your teammates is none other than Gavin McKenna, who is said to be the next Connor McDavid. Nevertheless, Lindstrom and Basha are also very good players, and they will both go in the first round.