Montreal Canadiens: Top 10 prospects entering 2019

4. Alexander Romanov

Acquired: 2018 second-round pick

Age: 19

Position: Defense

Stats: 43 games, 1 goal, 3 assists, 4 points (CSKA Moskva, KHL)

Alexander Romanov is a great example of why you have to consider context with prospects. On paper, his stats aren’t impressive at all. But keep this in mind. Romanov was one of the youngest defensemen in the KHL. And he was on a good team who didn’t really use him that much.

What’s important is Romanov has been playing against grown men for a full season. I saw 20 games of his, and I can’t recall him ever looking out of place. Romanov belonged in one of the world’s most competitive leagues.

Hopefully, we’ll see him get more playing time. I love his shot and his offensive instincts. His defense has improved quite a bit, which is promising to see. This is quickly becoming a theme, but the Canadiens can afford to be patient with him. It wouldn’t surprise me if he makes the jump to North America after this season.

3. Ryan Poehling

Acquired: 2017 first-round pick

Age: 20

Position: Center/Wing

Stats: 36 games, 8 goals, 23 assists, 31 points (St. Cloud State University, NCAA); 1 game, 3 goals (Montreal Canadiens, NHL)

Ryan Poehling is the most NHL ready prospect in the Montreal Canadiens system. There’s a good chance he’ll be on the Opening Night roster. He’s already made his NHL debut, and got a hat trick during it.

Poehling isn’t the best skater, but he’s got enough skill to make up for it. I’d rank him slightly above-average at skating. The Canadiens power-play wasn’t good last year and Poehling should be able to help there.