The Montreal Canadiens are making headlines once again as they continue to shake up the NHL Draft with another strategic move. In a display of bold decision-making and a clear vision for the team’s future, General Manager Kent Hughes orchestrated a trade with the Boston Bruins to move up in the draft order. This latest maneuver not only demonstrates the Canadiens’ determination to build a strong, competitive roster but also highlights their commitment to identifying and acquiring top young talent.

By securing the 69th overall pick, Montreal wasted no time in selecting promising center Hayden Paupanekis, a player known for his impressive size, physical presence, and two-way game. The excitement surrounding this pick is palpable, with fans and analysts alike eager to see how Paupanekis will fit into the organization’s long-term plans. As the draft continues, it’s clear that the Canadiens are not content to stand still—they are actively shaping their destiny and giving their supporters plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the future.

Montreal Canadiens and Boston Bruins logo

Photo credit: NHL

The Montreal Canadiens have just completed another trade, this time with the Boston Bruins, for a pick to select Hayden Paupanekis.

Once again, Kent Hughes has moved up in the draft and has gotten his hands on a forward.

Trade Between the Montreal Canadiens and the Boston Bruins to Move Up in the Draft and Select Hayden Paupanekis

We’re talking about a young, talented center here.

See the two announcements.

The Canadiens acquire the 69th overall pick from the Boston Bruins in exchange for the 79th and 108th overall picks in the 2025 NHL Draft.

Montreal Canadiens

With the 69th overall pick, the Canadiens select forward Hayden Paupanekis from the Kelowna Rockets of the WHL.

Montreal Canadiens

This looks like an excellent pick.

The Canadiens make another trade to move up to the 69th overall pick in the NHL Draft and select Hayden Paupanekis, a 6-foot-4, 196-pound center who recorded 22-21-43 in 71 games last season, split between the Spokane Chiefs and the Kelowna Rockets of the WHL.

Stu Cowan

Paupanekis exploded after his trade to the Kelowna Rockets, scoring 6 goals in his first 7 games with the team.

Known for his physicality and his defensive acumen, he seems to be the perfect fit for what Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton are trying to build.

It’ll be interesting to see what happens next, but let’s just say Kent Hughes is on fire right now.