Every NHL Draft brings with it a sense of hope and possibility, but sometimes, a single move can send shockwaves through the hockey world—especially when that move involves a name with deep NHL ties.

This year, as the dust settled on a whirlwind draft weekend, whispers began to circulate about a bold decision made by Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens.

While some picks make headlines for their star power, others quietly slip under the radar—until insiders start calling them the “steal of the draft.”

But what if this year’s most intriguing selection wasn’t just about raw talent, but also about family legacy and untapped potential? As experts across the league weigh in, one name keeps surfacing—sparking debates, comparisons, and a wave of excitement among fans.

Behind the scenes, a unique connection to one of the NHL’s brightest young stars is fueling even more speculation about what could be in store for Montreal.

Could this under-the-radar pick be the missing piece the Canadiens have been searching for? What role does a famous cousin play in shaping a young player’s journey?

And just how big of an impact could this move have on the franchise’s future? The answers might surprise you.

Apr 8, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Hockey Club center Logan Cooley (92) warms up before a game against the Seattle Kraken at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images

During the most recent NHL Draft, Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens pulled off a very solid move.

I know the word “steal” gets thrown around too much these days, but many experts (not just ones from Montreal) genuinely believe that young LJ Mooney should never have slipped all the way to the 113th overall pick.

“LJ Mooney could be the steal of the draft because of his incredible hands”

Mooney is featured on nearly every list of steals from the 2025 Draft.

In short, it’s an excellent acquisition by Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens.

Canadiens acquisition LJ Mooney says his cousin, Logan Cooley, helps him tremendously

Mooney is in fact the cousin of Utah Mammoth forward Logan Cooley, and they even play with similar styles.

LJ Mooney on his cousin Logan Cooley:

“Being close to him has helped me a lot. I’m kinda going through the same path as he went through. It makes me a lot more motivated to see what he’s doing. I’m really lucky to have him around.”

– HabsOnReddit

Cooley, 21, was selected 3rd overall by the Arizona Coyotes in 2022 – just two spots behind a certain Juraj Slafkovsky.

He posted 65 points in 75 games during the 2024-25 season with the Utah Mammoth, including 25 goals. He’s quite the hockey player.

Mooney, 18, was selected 113th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2025.

He recorded 28 points in 26 games during the 2024-25 season with the U.S. National Development Team.

At the same age, also with the U.S. National Development Team, Logan Cooley had 36 points in 24 games – but with a significantly stronger roster.

I’m really looking forward to seeing what the future holds for L.J. Mooney in the Montreal Canadiens organization.