Elliotte Friedman reported on Hockey Night in Canada that Montreal Canadiens prospect Michael Hage opted to return to Michigan rather than begin his professional career. This decision surprised many Canadiens fans who had hoped to see the talented young player join the team for the remainder of the season.
However, Friedman emphasized that there is no cause for concern. The Canadiens retain Hage’s rights for two more years and there’s no indication of any discontent between the player and the team. A recent three-hour dinner meeting involving Hage, his advisors, Canadiens management, including Kent Hughes and AGM John Sedgwick, confirmed a mutual understanding and laid out various scenarios.
The Canadiens communicated that while they were prepared for Hage to turn pro if he felt ready, they stressed that “there is no wrong decision.” The choice was ultimately left to him.
Hage’s decision appears to be influenced by several factors: a guaranteed increased role at Michigan next year, unfinished business after their Frozen Four loss, and the potential for his brother to join him at the Wolverines. This aligns with the Canadiens’ long-term plan for his development.
Speculation about Hage turning pro intensified after Michigan’s loss, especially given the Canadiens’ need for a second-line center. However, as noted by TSN Director of Scouting Craig Button, Hage’s development trajectory was a key consideration. Returning to college allows him to continue developing physically and gain more experience in a potentially larger role, while also being lighter on his schedule than in the AHL or NHL. Furthermore, he is recovering from an ankle injury.
For players seeking to avoid the AHL or needing further development, returning to college presents a sensible option. This approach allows them to grow without the immediate pressures of professional leagues.
English Translation:
Elliotte Friedman reported on Hockey Night in Canada that Montreal Canadiens prospect Michael Hage opted to return to Michigan rather than begin his professional career. This decision surprised many Canadiens fans who had hoped to see the talented young player join the team for the remainder of the season.
However, Friedman emphasized that there is no cause for concern. The Canadiens retain Hage’s rights for two more years and there’s no indication of any discontent between the player and the team. A recent three-hour dinner meeting involving Hage, his advisors, Canadiens management, including Kent Hughes and AGM John Sedgwick, confirmed a mutual understanding and laid out various scenarios.
The Canadiens communicated that while they were prepared for Hage to turn pro if he felt ready, they stressed that “there is no wrong decision.” The choice was ultimately left to him.
Hage’s decision appears to be influenced by several factors: a guaranteed increased role at Michigan next year, unfinished business after their Frozen Four loss, and the potential for his brother to join him at the Wolverines. This aligns with the Canadiens’ long-term plan for his development.
Speculation about Hage turning pro intensified after Michigan’s loss, especially given the Canadiens’ need for a second-line center. However, as noted by TSN Director of Scouting Craig Button, Hage’s development trajectory was a key consideration. Returning to college allows him to continue developing physically and gain more experience in a potentially larger role, while also being lighter on his schedule than in the AHL or NHL. Furthermore, he is recovering from an ankle injury.
For players seeking to avoid the AHL or needing further development, returning to college presents a sensible option. This approach allows them to grow without the immediate pressures of professional leagues.
