Montreal Canadiens: Top 10 prospects entering 2019

10. Rhett Pitlick

Acquired: 2019 fifth-round pick

Age: 18

Position: Left Wing

Stats: 25 games, 28 goals, 33 assists, 61 points (Chaska High, USHS-MN)

The Canadiens are going to play the long game with Rhett Pitlick. He’s going to take a while to develop. That said, there’s a lot to like about him. Pitlick has terrific awareness in the offensive zone and can create plays for both himself and for others. His skating is great as well.

He plays with a lot of energy, but sometimes, he can be a bit too physical for my liking. Pitlick is 5’9″ and 161 pounds, so he’s going to have to adjust his style of play to make it in the NHL. I’ve never seen him dominate against impressive competition, which is a bit concerning. He’s a project, but I really love his upside.

9. Joël Teasdale

Acquired: Undrafted (signed in 2018)

Age: 20

Position: Left Wing

Stats: 37 games, 19 goals, 19 assists, 38 points (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, QMJHL);  29 games, 24 goals, 18 assists, 42 points, 20 postseason games, 14 goals, 20 assists, 34 points (Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, QMJHL)

The Canadiens signed Joël Teasdale as an undrafted free agent back in September of 2018. He rewarded them for their faith with a very impressive 2018-19 season, which saw him dominate the QMJHL. 80 points in 66 games is nothing to sneeze at. Teasdale took over during the postseason, as he averaged over 1.5 points per game there.

I love his skill, but I’m not sold on his skating. It’s why he wasn’t drafted. Teasdale will have to adjust to their professional game as well. But I like his skill set and his willingness to go to the crease. I think he has a legitimate shot at being a full-time NHLer. The Canadiens can afford to be patient with him.