While much of the spotlight shines on the Montreal Canadiens’ top prospects, a quieter story is unfolding within the organization—one that could soon capture the attention of the entire hockey world. Adam Engstrom, a young defenseman quietly making waves with the Laval Rocket, has steadily emerged from the shadows of more celebrated names like Logan Mailloux and David Reinbacher.

Without the hype or fanfare that often surrounds high-profile draft picks, Engstrom’s consistent performances and undeniable growth have not gone unnoticed by those closest to the team. Praised by coaches and experts alike for his poise, competitiveness, and ability to deliver in crucial moments, he is quickly becoming a player to watch. As the Canadiens look to the future, Engstrom’s development could prove to be one of the organization’s smartest and most impactful moves—a potential game-changer waiting for his moment to shine.

Photo of Adam Engstrom

Photo credit: NHL

Without much fanfare, the Montreal Canadiens organization can count on several very intriguing young players.

We often talk about David Reinbacher, Logan Mailloux, Michael Hage, Jacob Fowler, and others (for obvious reasons).. but there are other hidden gems to discover, particularly with the Laval Rocket.

When we talk about successful acquisitions-ones that show very promising results for the Canadiens’ future-we can immediately think of young Adam Engstrom.

In the shadow of Logan Mailloux and David Reinbacher, he is undoubtedly becoming a defenseman who could one day be a regular for the Montreal Canadiens.

Pascal Vincent Praises Adam Engstrom, Another Solid Draft Pick by Kent Hughes and the Habs

We know several experts have praised Engstrom in recent weeks, but this time, the praise comes straight from the head coach of the Laval Rocket-which says a lot.

“They call him The Beast.
He doesn’t put on a show, but in big moments, he’s fully present.
He’s not intimidated by those important moments.

He wants the puck, he wants to make plays, he wants to contribute to the team’s success. That’s what gets you to the NHL!”
Pascal Vincent on Adam Engstrom

So he also sees him as a future NHL player!

If Logan Mailloux were to be traded this summer-which truly seems like a possibility-it’s clear that young Engstrom could take on a bigger role within the organization.

At 21 years old, Engstrom was the Canadiens’ 92nd overall pick in 2022, and he recorded 27 points in 66 games this season with the Laval Rocket, with a positive plus-minus of +14.