With Patrik Laine’s injury, a spot has opened up in the Montreal Canadiens’ offense, creating a great opportunity for Oliver Kapanen or Emil Heineman.
Both young players have been doing quite well since the start of the camp, and according to Jeff Gorton, the Canadiens’ vice president, Oliver Kapanen has truly caught the organization’s attention. On “Sick Podcast – The Eye Test,” Gorton said that Kapanen has impressed the team with his play and could stay longer at the camp.
Jeff Gorton hints at Joshua Roy potentially replacing Patrik Laine
Gorton also spoke about Joshua Roy, a young player who could take on a bigger role this season. We could even see Roy starting the season on the second line with Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook. According to Gorton, Roy has the intelligence and offensive talent necessary to play in the top six, but he still needs to show more consistency in his effort on the ice.
Gorton also had positive comments about Lane Hutson, a very promising defenseman. Despite having only two NHL games under his belt, Hutson impresses every time he steps onto the ice. His talent keeps developing, and he is already highly regarded within the organization.
These young players could well take advantage of the situation to secure a spot with the Canadiens this season.
At 21 years old, Joshua Roy tallied 9 points in 23 games last season with the Montreal Canadiens, as well as 32 points in 41 games with the Laval Rocket.
