Updates from rookie camp – Sept. 11
Montreal’s prospects will open the tournament against the Winnipeg Jets’ hopefuls on Saturday afternoon before wrapping up the weekend Sunday evening against the host Ottawa Senators.
Here’s what some of the players had to say ahead of the tournament:
Canadiens 2024 fifth-round pick Tyler Thorpe on the physicality of rookie tournament games:
These are the games where, obviously, I have to bring my physical presence, but I also get to showcase the other skills I may have. You know, I get to showcase more of my whole, complete game and hopefully take that into next season as well.
Canadiens 2024 fourth-round pick Owen Protz on how his unique style of play can help the team:
If I could play like Crosby or McDavid, I would. [laughs] I think the biggest thing is just being realistic. It’s understanding what the team wants and what it’s going to take to win. As much as the goal is to have five McDavids on the ice, you might not be able to win championships with that. So, really, it’s about being realistic, sticking to my game, knowing how I play, and trusting myself. That’s going to bring me a spot, or earn the trust of the coaches as well.
Canadiens Rookie Camp invitee Kody Dupuis on the challenge of the 2026 NHL Prospect Challenge without having many practice reps together:
I think it’s important to form a family and establish good communication between the guys from the get-go. Like everybody else, the goal is to showcase our game as a whole, and the rest will take care of itself.
Laval Rocket head coach, Daniel Jacob on the players staying true to themselves at Canadiens Rookie Camp:
That’s the most important thing, and that was my message to them as well. We throw a lot of information at them, but ultimately, it’s not about being perfect. You bring your business card with you, and you want to leave it on the table at the end of the weekend: what is it that got you here? You don’t win a contest to be at Canadiens Rookie Camp, so it’s about staying true to who they are and doing what they do best.
Canadiens Rookie Camp continues through Tuesday, September 15.
