Articles / Revisiting the Canadiens’ 2018 NHL Draft: Best in Almost 3 Decades

Revisiting the Canadiens’ 2018 NHL Draft: Best in Almost 3 Decades

T
The Hockey Writers
Jun 7, 2025 5:56 PM

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The 2018 NHL Draft was a significant event for the Montreal Canadiens, who faced a challenging rebuilding phase. With their first pick, they selected Jesperi Kotkaniemi, a center with immense potential. Over the years, the Canadiens have seen mixed results from this draft, with Kotkaniemi departing for the Carolina Hurricanes and subsequently becoming a more influential player. The Habs also picked several other players who have yet to make a substantial impact in the NHL, leaving fans to reflect on the decisions made during that crucial draft.

In addition to Kotkaniemi, the Canadiens drafted players such as Ryan Poehling and Joshua Roy. Poehling made his NHL debut in 2019, showcasing promise but struggling to secure a regular spot in the lineup. On the other hand, Roy remains a developing prospect in the Canadiens' system. The overall sentiment among fans is one of cautious optimism, as the franchise looks to build a more competitive team.

The 2018 draft highlighted the importance of player development for the Canadiens. With the right guidance and training, some of these selected players may still become cornerstones of the team in the future. The decisions taken during that draft will ultimately shape the team's trajectory, making it a pivotal moment in the Canadiens' history. As they continue to build for tomorrow, the lessons learned from the 2018 draft could prove invaluable in their quest for success in the NHL.