Montreal Canadiens: Top 10 prospects entering 2019

6. Josh Brook

Acquired: 2017 second-round pick

Age: 20

Position: Defense

Stats: 59 games, 16 goals, 59 assists, 75 points (Moose Jaw Warriors, WHL); 7 games, 1 point (Laval Rocket, AHL)

Josh Brook took a huge step forward last year. I’ve always been a fan of his ability to move the puck and be a threat on offense, but he was one of the best defensemen in the WHL last season. Don’t worry about his unimpressive numbers in the AHL – Brook was on the third pairing and rarely used. He didn’t look out of place, which is the most important thing.

Brook has the tools to be a threat on the power-play, as he’s got a nice shot and good vision. The Canadiens will probably send him to the AHL to start the season, but his skillset is one the Habs could use on the right side. So don’t be surprised if he gets a shot in the NHL early on.

5. Jesse Ylönen

Acquired: 2018 second-round pick

Age: 19 (turns 20 in October)

Position: Right Wing

Stats: 53 games, 13 goals, 14 assists, 27 points (Pelicans, Liiga)

Jesse Ylönen has a lot of upside. His skating is off the charts great. Ylönen is a terrific playmaker, though this doesn’t show in his assist totals – yet. Keep in mind he was a 19-year-old on a fairly deep team – his 27 points ranked ninth on the team. As a 19 year old, he drove his own line. That’s pretty darn good.

What’s particularly fascinating about Ylönen is he started shooting the puck more. I like his shot and think it could be a weapon. He’s such a good playmaker, people tend to forget he can shoot as well. Ylönen could be a top-six forward with his blend of offense.