It’s finished. Hockey Canada has released a list of invited players for its summer camps. We’re discussing the U20, U18, and U17 teams. Once again, the list includes a number of extremely talented players.
Except, once again, players who merit an invitation are just ignored. Michael Hage, for example, did not get an invitation to the camp.
What’s most bizarre about this is that Hage (who was picked in the 21st round) will be surpassed by players drafted later than him in 2024. These players include Cole Beaudoin (24th pick), Tanner Howe (46th pick), and Anthony Romani (162nd pick!?).
Canadian players in the United States do not receive preferential treatment from Hockey Canada. Another American-based player who was not invited is Quebecer Sacha Boisvert, who was picked even earlier than Hage (18th overall).
Both players had outstanding seasons in the USHL, but it was insufficient to compel Hockey Canada’s hand.
Since Hage was passed over, the Montreal Canadiens have no possibility of making the list of players invited to Canada’s summer camp.
It’s also not a fantastic vintage for the QMJHL.
Only five Cecchini circuit members were accepted to the camp, four of which are from Quebec: Mathieu Cataford, Vincent Collard, Ethan Gauthier, Étienne Morin, and Dylan MacKinnon.
Matthew Wood and Macklin Celebrini are the only two players who played in the United States last season to receive invitations. However, don’t expect Celebrini to join the club for the tournament because he may already be established in the NHL.
Wood would be the sole exception to the norm. However, Michael Hage’s great start to the season has the potential to change everything. The Canadian prospect could force Hockey Canada’s hand and earn an invitation to the main camp.
Hockey Canada does not appear to like players that choose to play in the United States. It’s a shame because Hage and Boisvert could have provided some fantastic hockey for Team Canada Junior.
