In the whirlwind world of NHL prospects, where future stars are scrutinized and every move is dissected, it’s easy for some names to quietly fade into the background.

While Montreal Canadiens fans have been captivated by the emergence of new talents and headline-grabbing draft picks, one former first-round selection has been largely forgotten—until now.

Filip Mesar, once celebrated as a key piece of the Canadiens’ rebuilding puzzle, has spent the past year battling adversity both on and off the ice.

As the spotlight shifted to other rising stars, Mesar’s struggles raised questions and doubts about his future with the organization.

However, a recent revelation from the young forward himself has brought his journey back into focus, sparking fresh debate among fans and analysts alike.

What really happened to Filip Mesar last season? And does he still have a place in Montreal’s long-term plans? As new details emerge, the story of this overlooked prospect is far from over—and it may just be entering its most compelling chapter yet.

Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

We’ve just received an update on a forgotten young Montreal Canadiens forward – a former first-round pick named Filip Mesar.

With all the buzz around names like Michael Hage, Lane Hutson, Juraj Slafkovsky, David Reinbacher, and even Alexander Zharovsky, it’s easy to overlook Mesar. Yet, he was selected in the first round of the 2022 NHL Draft by the Canadiens.

Many fans and experts have already written him off, especially after another tough season. However, Mesar has just made an announcement that could explain quite a bit.

Filip Mesar Reveals He Was Dealing With a Major Injury Throughout Last Season

According to Mesar, that injury clearly impacted his disappointing performance.

In a recent interview with a Slovak media outlet, Mesar explained that his 2024-25 season went off the rails due to a significant injury.

He pushed through and played as many games as possible, but he says the injury had an obvious effect.

“He had shoulder pain for a while.. and also tore ligaments in his ankle.

He had to use crutches for a month and couldn’t put any weight on his foot.”

– DLC

That said, he delivered a very clear message:

Filip Mesar: “The Canadiens still count on me”

Yes, according to him, he’s still very much in the Montreal Canadiens’ long-term plans.

Personally, I have my doubts. It feels like Mesar always has a reason to explain away his struggles. Let’s just say I hope Kent Hughes isn’t banking on Mesar to one day fill the role of second-line center in Montreal.

Let’s put it that way.

Filip Mesar, 21 years old, is a 5-foot-10, 184-pound forward who was selected 26th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the first round of the 2022 draft. Last season, he recorded 18 points in 42 games with the Laval Rocket.