There are several intriguing stories coming out of the Canadiens training camp, including the development of Joshua Roy, the rise of Lane Hutson, and the acquisition of Patrik Laine.
Amidst all this, Oliver Kapanen is also having a strong training camp. The Habs’ second-round pick from 2021 shows no signs of being intimidated by the veterans and is showcasing his intelligence on the ice.
It’s not just the fans who are discovering him; Martin St-Louis was unfamiliar with Kapanen prior to the training camp.
Martin St-Louis did not know Oliver Kapanen before the camp.
But it is clear that the attacker has left a fine calling card so far.
Oliver will play in the center of Barré-Boulet and Heineman tonight. pic.twitter.com/D1WmiN4oqT
— Anthony Martineau (@Antho_Martineau) September 23, 2024
“I didn’t know him. He plays well on the ice, it’s very smooth. You can see his intelligence too.” – Martin St-Louis
He is confident that he will be able to contribute from the first preseason game. Kapanen will therefore be in the lineup tonight when the Flyers come to town.
The 21-year-old has consistently stated that he is in Montreal to earn a spot on the main roster, as he isn’t eligible to play in the American League. He would have to return to Europe if he fails to make the big team.
To secure a place for himself, he needs to perform exceptionally well in the preseason games. He will be playing alongside Emil Heineman and Alex Barré-Boulet, both of whom are expected to join the Laval Rocket. However, it is noteworthy that his trio performed excellently during the Whites vs. Reds matches in recent games.
He will have to demonstrate enough skill to compel Martin St-Louis to consider him for a line with more talented players, which is no easy feat.
In a burst
– He really said it.
Stop fkn crying bro, it’s not junior 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/VS0pAMAErJ
— Leafs Papi (@LeafsPapi_) September 23, 2024
– Quite ironic.
The Panthers spent YEARS dealing with Steven Stamkos one-timer goals only to make their preseason debut against…
Newest Nashville Predator Steven Stamkos scoring a one-timer goal 🚨 pic.twitter.com/aAuvXquliX
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) September 23, 2024
– Nice dodge.
Attempt to hit Demidov: Failed. #GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/YwYBTasBoB
— Marc Dumont (@MarcPDumont) September 23, 2024
Exciting Updates from Canadiens Training Camp: Focus on Oliver Kapanen
The Canadiens training camp is buzzing with intense competition and notable performances. Among the highlights, the progression of Joshua Roy, the emergence of Lane Hutson, and the arrival of Patrik Laine are turning heads. Yet, one player shining brightly is Oliver Kapanen.
Kapanen, drafted in the second round in 2021, has proven his mettle and is displaying remarkable confidence on the ice. Despite facing veteran players, he is making a name for himself through his exceptional intelligence and skill in the gameplay.
Martin St-Louis Takes Notice
Surprisingly for many, including head coach Martin St-Louis, Kapanen was not on the radar prior to this training camp. As St-Louis observes Kapanen’s performances, it’s clear the young forward is making an indelible impression.
Martin St-Louis did not know Oliver Kapanen before the camp. But it is clear that the attacker has left a fine calling card so far. Oliver will play in the center of Barré-Boulet and Heineman tonight. pic.twitter.com/D1WmiN4oqT
— Anthony Martineau (@Antho_Martineau) September 23, 2024
Coach’s Insights
“I didn’t know him. He behaves well on the ice, it’s very smooth. You see his intelligence too.” – Martin St-Louis
Kapanen is not just participating; he’s determined to make an impact from the outset. As the preseason approaches, Kapanen realizes the challenges ahead in securing a spot on the Canadiens roster.
The Pressure and Ambitions
At just 21 years old, Kapanen faces the reality that failure to make the NHL team means he’ll return to Europe, as he’s not eligible for AHL play. This adds a layer of urgency to his performance during preseason games.
Key Preseason Matches
Tonight, Kapanen expects to take the ice in a critical match against the Philadelphia Flyers, teamed with players Alex Barré-Boulet and Emil Heineman. His previous performances during the Whites vs. Reds scrimmages have shown significant promise.
Notably, his trio has excelled together, presenting a challenge for St-Louis to potentially elevate Kapanen to a line with more skilled players.
Training Camp Highlights
- Joshua Roy’s Development: Roy is showing maturity in his game and adapting well to the pressures of training camp.
- Lane Hutson’s Emergence: Known for his swift skating and playmaking ability, Hutson continues to catch the eye of the coaching staff.
- Patrik Laine’s Arrival: The veteran forward’s experience is expected to elevate the team’s overall performance and mentorship for younger players.
Player Profiles
| Player | Position | Age | Draft Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oliver Kapanen | Forward | 21 | 2021 |
| Joshua Roy | Forward | 19 | 2020 |
| Lane Hutson | Defense | 20 | 2022 |
| Patrik Laine | Forward | 26 | 2016 |
Social Media Buzz
The excitement doesn’t end on the ice. Social media is rife with discussions and insights about the ongoing camp. Here are some of the recent trending tweets that have caught the attention of fans:
Stop fkn crying bro, it’s not junior 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/VS0pAMAErJ
— Leafs Papi (@LeafsPapi_) September 23, 2024
The Panthers spent YEARS dealing with Steven Stamkos one-timer goals only to make their preseason debut against… Newest Nashville Predator Steven Stamkos scoring a one-timer goal 🚨 pic.twitter.com/aAuvXquliX
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) September 23, 2024
Attempt to hit Demidov: Failed. #GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/YwYBTasBoB
— Marc Dumont (@MarcPDumont) September 23, 2024
