2023 NHL Draft | Under the Microscope: Etienne Morin
Etienne Morin has spent much of his current sophomore campaign with the Moncton Wildcats in the spotlight, and for good reason.
At just 17 years old, he leads all QMJHL defensemen with 14 goals and sits second with 42 points in 37 games played. The impressive two-way defender has increased his offensive output in 2022-23 thanks to his great hands, strong edges, and improved agility on the blue line.
His production hasn’t gone unnoticed, as he’s quickly becoming one of the league’s top-rated prospects ahead of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft.
Morin showed flashes of his talent last season but has taken his game to a whole new level this year. Moncton head coach Daniel Lacroix is quick to point to his blueliner’s deceptively quick skating stride, his great ability to read plays as they develop, and his attention to detail as reasons for his success.
Lacroix isn’t all that surprised by Morin’s performance this season given that he’s learned how and when to fire his shots on net. He’s continuing the progression he started last year, when he joined the Wildcats as a 16-year-old.
“He’s a kid who deserves what he gets because he’s a hard worker and he’s a great teammate,” explained Lacroix. “He works hard in practice, he’s very mature in his approach, and he shows up looking to improve. He doesn’t deflect anything towards others, he takes it on his own shoulders. He’s like that in school, he’s a good student. He’s a guy who doubles down in everything he does.”
Morin’s strong start to the season has earned him an invite to the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game on January 25, where he’ll get to compete against the best players in the country from his age group. While he’s honoured by the recognition and is excited for the opportunity to measure himself against players such as Regina Pats forward Connor Bedard, he’s not letting his newfound status distract him from helping his young rebuilding team improve.
“Every day I just want to come in and still love the game and love playing hockey. I don’t want to put any pressure on myself and just enjoy every moment,” said Morin. “I’m trying to have as much fun as I can and bring joy to the room.”
Despite Morin’s father being a former baseball player, he did end up passing his love for hockey on to his son. Etienne grew up wanting to emulate his childhood idol, defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom, and even wears no. 5 in honour of the Detroit Red Wings legend.
Today, Morin’s on the verge of moving one step closer to suiting up in the NHL thanks to a playing style that would make his favourite player proud.
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Etienne Morin
Height: 6’0″ | Weight: 183 lbs
Date of Birth: March 9, 2005
Birthplace: Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, Quebec
Shoots: Left
