When it comes to young prospects making their mark, few stories are as compelling as Michael Hage’s recent offseason journey.

The Montreal Canadiens’ 21st overall pick in the 2024 draft has grabbed headlines—not just for his raw talent, but for an astonishing transformation that has insiders buzzing and fans speculating.

While many are eager to see him leap into the world of professional hockey, what Hage has done behind the scenes is sending shockwaves through the organization.

From a dramatic change in his physique to a relentless training schedule that would make even seasoned veterans pause, Hage’s commitment is impossible to ignore.

But it’s not just about lifting weights or hitting the ice—there’s a hidden aspect to his preparation that’s even more intriguing, one that could redefine his entire approach to the game.

Coaches have thrown down the gauntlet, challenging him to elevate his play, and Hage has responded with a determination that’s turning heads across the league.

What exactly is fueling this remarkable progress, and what secret adjustments has Hage made that could change everything for his career?

As whispers of his new strengths and skills circulate, the true story behind his transformation remains tantalizingly out of reach. Read on to uncover the details—and discover why Michael Hage’s offseason could be the start of something unforgettable.

Photo credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Many are eager to see Michael Hage make the jump to professional hockey.

In recent weeks, he has done everything he can to ensure that transition happens sooner rather than later.

As Nicolas Cloutier mentioned in a recent article for TVA Sports, the 21st overall pick in the 2024 draft hasn’t held back on his training.

He passed the 200-pound mark, which is 10 pounds more than what was listed by the Montreal Canadiens at the last development camp.

Wow!

“As soon as the season ended, we were in the gym until the end of June, right up to the [Habs] development camp.”

“I’m in the gym five times a week and on the ice three or four times a week. The rest of the time, I play golf.”
– Michael Hage

In addition to the gym, the 19-year-old forward also changed his diet.

He believes that nutrition is just as important-if not more important-than training.

Martin Lapointe gave Michael Hage a challenge he wants to accomplish

At the beginning of July, the co-director of amateur scouting for the Montreal Canadiens, Martin Lapointe, gave an interview to Nicolas Cloutier.

In it, he admitted that Hage needed to improve his play without the puck.

A challenge that Hage has accepted and is working on even during the offseason.

According to the Habs prospect, his new physical strength will certainly help him become a more difficult player to play against.

“Ninety-five percent of the time, you’re playing without the puck.

Obviously, I’m someone who wants the puck on his stick.

So I have to find ways to beat defensemen on the forecheck and protect the puck better if I want it more often.” – Michael Hage

And we’re already seeing improvement.

At the summer showcase of the World Junior Championship in Minneapolis, he received excellent feedback in this regard from Team Canada head coach Dale Hunter.

As soon as his season ended in March, Michael Hage started lifting weights five times a week, so much so that he now weighs 200 lb.

But the biggest adjustment he made was far from the dumbbells.