With the 2026 World Junior Championship a couple months away, national teams have started assembling some of their best under-20 talent at the annual World Junior Summer Showcase. For the Montreal Canadiens, four of their prospects, Michael Hage, Owen Protz, Aatos Koivu, and LJ Mooney, are taking part in the festivities and looking to leave a strong impression on their respective national teams. While not all of them are guaranteed to suit up in December, two names in particular could be key figures during the holidays.
Michael Hage (Canada)
Among the four Habs prospects present at the Summer Showcase, Hage is the one generating the most excitement. A skilled, fast, and intelligent centre with top-six NHL potential, Hage capped off a solid rookie season with the Michigan Wolverines in the NCAA, finishing with just over a point per game. His blend of playmaking, shot selection, and ability to drive transitions make him a prime candidate to centre one of Canada’s lines at the World Juniors.
Now heading into his second season with the University of Michigan, Hage is expected to take another step. His two-way maturity and offensive instincts have made Habs fans dream of that second-line centre. For Team Canada, Hage is viewed as one of the most skilled players available, and with his combination of vision and pace, he looks like a near-lock to make the team come December.
Aatos Koivu (Finland)
Koivu, the son of Habs legend Saku Koivu, is forging his own path with a style that mixes intelligence, composure, and high-end hockey sense. Though not flashy, Koivu’s value lies in his ability to read the game and make the right play consistently. He’s not the most dynamic player, but he’s highly efficient at both ends of the ice.
Koivu missed his first opportunity to participate in the tournament last year because of mononucleosis early in the season. He’s expected to make the team this time around and started the Showcase strong with two goals against the United States a few days ago. Among the Habs’ prospects in this Showcase, he and Hage are the safest bets to play key roles for their countries.
LJ Mooney (USA)
Mooney is a high-upside, high-risk prospect who brings a dynamic skill set to the table. He’s electric in open ice, boasting great hands and above-average speed, and he isn’t afraid to try creative plays. With 51 points in 51 games for…
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