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The QMJHL announces the winners of eight trophies

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:13:14 +0000

After announcing the finalists yesterday, the QMJHL is proud to unveil today the winners of eight individual trophies.

“And the Golden Puck goes to…”

David-Desharnais Trophy, Most sportsmanlike player while being effective

Winner: Alex Huang, Chicoutimi Saguenéens In his third QMJHL season, all with the Saguenéens, Huang raised his personal best from 40 to 70 points, finishing second among Q defensemen in scoring. His 11 goals and 59 assists were also career highs. Huang also ranked second among his peers with a +58 rating and 32 power-play points. Used in all situations, the Nashville Predators prospect was penalized for just 14 minutes this season. Finalists: Samuel Beauchemin, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, and Philippe Veilleux, Val-d’Or Foreurs

Guy-Carbonneau Trophy, Top defensive forward

Winner: Gabe Smith, Moncton Wildcats This was a breakout year for Smith, who improved his personal best from 39 to 77 points, ranking third among the high-powered Wildcats. Of his 34 goals, 18 came on the power play, a league-high. Smith was frequently matched against top opposing players and used his imposing 6-foot-4, 225-pound frame to disrupt opponents. He also scored two shorthanded goals and was the Wildcats’ most-used center in the faceoff circle (1,170), where he posted a 58.9% success rate. Finalists: Thomas Desruisseaux, Chicoutimi Saguenéens, and Thomas Verdon, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies

Kevin-Lowe Trophy, Top defensive defenseman

Winner: Félix Plamondon, Shawinigan Cataractes Plamondon has developed steadily over four years, becoming a reliable presence on the Cataractes’ blue line. Along the way, he increased his point totals from 15 to 21 to 32 over the last three seasons. Of his 32 points this season, 29 came at even strength. He also posted a +46 rating, by far the best in Shawinigan, ahead of Chad Lygistakos’ +31. Without flash, Plamondon has become head coach Daniel Renaud’s go-to player to shut down the opposition’s top forwards. Finalists: Peteris Bulans, Chicoutimi Saguenéens, and Adam Fortier-Gendron, Moncton Wildcats

Maurice-Filion Trophy, General Manager of the Year

Winner: Yanick Jean, Chicoutimi Saguenéens Jean and the Saguenéens had high expectations for 2025–2026, a season they began building during the 2022 and 2023 drafts. Jean made a key move last summer by selecting Maxim Schäfer in the CHL Import Draft. Then, during the holiday period, he made several impactful acquisitions: Tomas Lavoie, Alexis Bernier, and Jordan Tourigny on defense; Lucas Beckman in goal; as well as Liam Lefebvre and Mavrick Lachance up front. The Saguenéens were a dominant force in the second half of the season but finished just one point behind Moncton atop the overall standings. Finalists: Gordie Dwyer, Newfoundland Regiment, and Taylor MacDougall, Moncton Wildcats

Michael-Bossy Trophy, Top professional prospect

Winner: Maddox Dagenais, Québec Remparts After missing 21 games due to injury in his rookie season, Dagenais truly broke out this year with 62 points in as many games, ranking 34^th in QMJHL scoring. The Remparts’ second-leading scorer, he led his team with 10 goals and 25 power-play points. His 273 shots ranked fourth in the league. Dagenais should be a first-round NHL pick in June. Finalists: Tommy Bleyl, Moncton Wildcats, and Egor Shilov, Victoriaville Tigres

Michel-Bergeron Trophy, Offensive Rookie of the Year

Winner: Egor Shilov, Victoriaville Tigres Shilov led all rookies and finished seventh in QMJHL scoring with 82 points in 63 games. Among first-year players, he ranked second with 32 goals and third with 31 power-play points, while also winning 54.8% of his faceoffs. Shilov is considered a potential first-round pick at the next NHL Draft. Finalists: Alexis Joseph, Saint John Sea Dogs, and Alexey Vlasov, Victoriaville Tigres

Paul-Dumont Trophy, Personality of the Year

Winner: Glenn Stanford, Newfoundland Regiment If the Regiment’s inaugural season was a success, it is in large part due to its president, Glenn Stanford. With extensive knowledge of the St. John’s market and hockey overall—having worked in the AHL and ECHL—Stanford and his team led the Regiment to a QMJHL record for a first season, averaging 5,233 fans per game. On the ice, the team finished third in the Eastern Conference and sixth overall. There is a real QMJHL buzz in St. John’s, and Glenn Stanford is at the heart of it. Finalists: Caleb Desnoyers, Moncton Wildcats, and Alexis Joseph, Saint John Sea Dogs

Raymond-Lagacé Trophy, Defensive Rookie of the Year

Winner: Tommy Bleyl, Moncton Wildcats Bleyl finished second among league rookies with 81 points in 63 games, setting a QMJHL record for a rookie defenseman. The previous mark of 77 was held by Gaston Therrien and had stood for 48 years. His 68 assists led the league. Among defensemen, Bleyl outpaced his closest competitor, Alex Huang, by 11 points. After helping the Wildcats win a second consecutive regular-season championship, he will be eligible for the NHL Draft in June. Many experts see him as a potential first-round pick. Finalists: Jan Larys, Drummondville Voltigeurs, and Malik L’Italien, Halifax Mooseheads

The QMJHL announces rosters for 2026 QMJHL Cup in Shawinigan

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 19:29:16 +0000

The QMJHL unveiled today the composition of the four teams that will take part in the final portion of the 2026 QMJHL Cup, held at the Centre Gervais Auto in Shawinigan, from April 22 to 25.

These teams are made up of the vast majority of the top 2010-born prospects ahead of the QMJHL Draft, presented by Fenplast, which will take place on June 5 and 6 in Halifax.

These prospects come from across the entire QMJHL territory, including some from the United States.

TEAM SIMON BENOIT TEAM ANTHONY BEAUVILLIER TEAM FRÉDÉRICK GAUDREAU TEAM SAMUEL GIRARD

The following players were invited but will be unable to attend as they will be participating in the Telus Cup (U18 AAA Canadian Championship) with their respective teams:
Malek Bélanger, Lévis U18 AAA
Axel Bolduc, Lévis U18 AAA
Simon Delarosbil, Lévis U18 AAA
Zachary Lainesse, Lévis U18 AAA Carter Odell, Halifax U18 AAA
Loïk Poulin, Lévis U18 AAA
Enzo Roy, Lévis U18 AAA

The following three players will be unable to participate due to injuries:
Vincent Boutet, Séminaire Saint-François U18 AAA
Alexandre Deschamps, Laval-Montréal U18 AAA
Emrik Ménard, Woodbridge U16 _

Players will arrive on Wednesday, April 22 and will quickly undergo physical and psychometric testing under the supervision of the UQTR Hockey Research Laboratory. The full QMJHL Cup schedule is available here.

Congratulations and best of luck at the QMJHL Cup to all invited players!

CHL unveils players ranked No. 40 through No. 31 on Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years list

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 18:11:28 +0000

The Top 50 players were identified through a media vote, with the final rankings determined by a weighted combination of media and fan voting. After unveiling players ranked No. 50 through No. 41 last week, the CHL continues the countdown today, while full player bios remain available at chl.ca/chl50.

The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is proud to reveal the players ranked No. 40 through No. 31 on its Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years list (see below), a signature initiative launched as part of the CHL’s 50th anniversary season. The countdown celebrates the greatest players from the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) since 1975-76, honouring the stars who have shaped major junior hockey over the past five decades. As part of the initiative, a panel of media members first identified the Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years (since 1975-76). From there, the final ranking order was determined using a weighted formula that combined media and fan voting to rank the players from No. 1 through No. 50. Last week, the CHL unveiled the players ranked No. 50 through No. 41 to begin the countdown. KEY FACTS & MEDIA NOTES: CHL TOP 50 PLAYERS MEDIA RESOURCES (PHOTOS, LOGOS, VIDEOS & MORE) _ 40. Vincent Lecavalier, Forward | QMJHL | Rimouski Océanic (1996-98) | Tampa Bay Lightning, Philadelphia Flyers & Los Angeles Kings (1998-2016): Lecavalier starred in two dominant seasons with Rimouski, recording 217 points in 122 regular-season games and earning both QMJHL and CHL Rookie of the Year honours in 1996-97. He followed with 115 points in 58 games in 1997-98, was named to the QMJHL and CHL First All-Star Teams, and added 41 points in 18 playoff games as the Océanic reached the QMJHL Championship Series. The first overall pick in the 1998 NHL Draft, Lecavalier went on to captain the Lightning, win the Stanley Cup in 2004, capture the Rocket Richard Trophy in 2006-07, and finish with 949 points in 1,212 NHL games. 39. Drew Doughty, Defenceman | OHL | Guelph Storm (2005-08) | Los Angeles Kings (2008-Present): Doughty emerged as one of the OHL’s top defencemen during three seasons in Guelph, earning CHL and OHL All-Rookie Team honours in 2005-06 before breaking out with 74 points in 67 games the following year. In 2007-08, he won the Max Kaminsky Trophy as the OHL’s Most Outstanding Defenceman and was named to the OHL and CHL First All-Star Teams. Selected second overall in 2008, Doughty became a franchise cornerstone in Los Angeles, winning the Norris Trophy and helping the Kings capture Stanley Cups in 2012 and 2014. 38. Ron Francis, Forward | OHL | Soo Greyhounds (1980-82) | Hartford Whalers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Carolina Hurricanes & Toronto Maple Leafs (1981-2004): Francis made an immediate impact with his hometown Soo Greyhounds, posting 69 points in 64 games as an OHL rookie in 1980-81, then adding 48 points in just 25 games the next season before jumping to the NHL. His junior career may have been brief, but it was enough to cement his place in Greyhounds history, with the club later retiring his No. 10. Chosen fourth overall in 1981, Francis built a Hall of Fame career in the NHL that included two Stanley Cups with Pittsburgh and 1,798 points in 1,731 games. 37. Roberto Luongo, Goaltender | QMJHL | Val-d’Or Foreurs & Acadie-Bathurst Titan (1995-99) | New York Islanders, Florida Panthers & Vancouver Canucks (1999-2019): Luongo developed into one of the QMJHL’s elite goaltenders over four seasons with Val-d’Or and Acadie-Bathurst. He won the QMJHL’s Michael-Bossy Trophy (Top Professional Prospect) in 1996-97, helped Val-d’Or capture its first QMJHL title in 1998, then added a second league championship with Acadie-Bathurst in 1999. Luongo finished his QMJHL playoff career holding league records for games, minutes, wins, and shots faced. The fourth overall pick in 1997, he went on to a Hall of Fame career in the NHL, ranking among the all-time leaders in games and wins while starring for both the Panthers and Canucks. 36. Shea Weber, Defenceman | WHL | Kelowna Rockets (2001-05) | Nashville Predators & Montreal Canadiens (2005-21): Weber played a key role in one of the WHL’s top clubs of the early 2000s, helping Kelowna win two WHL championships and the 2004 Memorial Cup. He earned WHL and CHL all-star recognition in his final two seasons and capped his junior career by winning WHL Playoffs MVP in 2005 after scoring nine goals from the blue line in the postseason. Drafted by Nashville in 2003, Weber became one of the NHL’s premier defencemen, captaining both the Predators and Canadiens and finishing with 589 points in 1,038 NHL games. 35. Bobby Smith, Forward | OHL | Ottawa 67’s (1975-78) | Minnesota North Stars & Montreal Canadiens (1978-93): Smith authored one of the greatest careers in Ottawa 67’s history, highlighted by a remarkable 1977-78 season in which he produced 192 points in 61 games to win the Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy (OHL Top Scorer), Red Tilson Trophy (OHL MVP), and CHL Player of the Year honours. A year earlier, he led the OHL with 65 goals, and he also starred at the 1977 Memorial Cup, where he shared the scoring lead and won the George Parsons Trophy. Selected first overall in 1978, Smith went on to win the Calder Trophy, capture a Stanley Cup with Montreal in 1986, and record 1,036 points in 1,077 NHL games. 34. Brendan Shanahan, Forward | OHL | London Knights (1985-87) | New Jersey Devils, St. Louis Blues, Hartford Whalers, Detroit Red Wings & New York Rangers (1987-2009): Shanahan established himself as a premier power forward with the London Knights, totaling 154 points in 115 games over two OHL seasons. He scored 92 points in 1986-87, earned OHL Third All-Star Team honours, and solidified himself as one of the top prospects in junior hockey. Selected second overall in 1987, Shanahan went on to a Hall of Fame career in the NHL that featured 656 goals, 1,354 points, three Stanley Cups with Detroit, and membership in the Triple Gold Club. 33. Ray Ferraro, Forward | WHL | Portland Winterhawks & Brandon Wheat Kings (1982-84) | Hartford Whalers, New York Islanders, Los Angeles Kings, Atlanta Thrashers & St. Louis Blues (1984-2002): Ferraro was one of the WHL’s most prolific scorers, totaling 282 points in just 122 regular-season games. After a standout rookie year in Portland, he delivered a historic 1983-84 season in Brandon with 108 goals and 192 points, winning both WHL Player of the Year and Top Scorer honours. He remains the only player in WHL history to score 100 goals in a season. Despite being a fifth-round NHL pick, Ferraro went on to enjoy an 18-year NHL career, finishing with 408 goals and 898 points. 32. Joe Thornton, Forward | OHL | Soo Greyhounds (1995-97) | Boston Bruins, San Jose Sharks, Toronto Maple Leafs & Florida Panthers (1997-2022): Thornton dominated in just two OHL seasons with the Soo Greyhounds, recording 198 points in 125 games. He won both OHL and CHL Rookie of the Year in 1995-96, then followed with 122 points in 59 games in 1996-97 while earning OHL and CHL Second All-Star Team honours and the CHL Top Prospect Award. Chosen first overall in 1997, Thornton built a Hall of Fame career in the NHL, winning the Hart and Art Ross trophies in 2005-06 and retiring with 1,539 points in 1,714 games 31. Brad Richards, Forward | QMJHL | Rimouski Océanic (1997-2000) | Tampa Bay Lightning, Dallas Stars, New York Rangers, Chicago Blackhawks & Detroit Red Wings (2000-16): Richards put together one of the most impressive offensive runs in modern QMJHL history, topping 100 points in each of his three seasons with Rimouski. His crowning campaign came in 1999-2000, when he piled up 186 points in 63 games and led the Océanic to both the QMJHL championship and Memorial Cup title, while sweeping league, playoff, and Memorial Cup MVP honours. Drafted by Tampa Bay in 1998, Richards went on to play 1,126 NHL games, win two Stanley Cups, and claim the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2004. Further rankings from the Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years list will be revealed in the coming weeks. _ CHL Top 50 Evaluation Criteria and Eligibility The CHL’s Top 50 Players were selected by a panel of more than 40 media members who submitted ranked 1–50 ballots guided by a weighted evaluation framework designed to ensure consistency across eras. Panelists considered a player’s impact beyond the CHL — including NHL and international success, major awards and championships, and Hall of Fame recognition — alongside on-ice achievement in the Member Leagues, reflecting what players accomplished during their time in the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL through production, individual honours, team success, and sustained dominance. Selections also accounted for historical significance, recognizing milestones, era-defining influence, generational impact, and lasting contributions to CHL history. To be eligible, players must have competed in at least one full season in the WHL, OHL, or QMJHL during the CHL’s 50-year history beginning in 1975–76; for players who competed in 1975–76 and also played prior to that season, their entire CHL career was considered when evaluating on-ice accomplishments.

QMJHL announces Finalists for eight trophies

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 15:04:33 +0000

The QMJHL is proud to announce today the finalists for eight individual trophies for the 2025-26 regular season. The winners of these Golden Pucks will be announced tomorrow. (In alphabetical order) _

David-Desharnais Trophy | Most sportsmanlike player combined with effectiveness

Samuel Beauchemin, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies

In his third QMJHL season, Beauchemin posted career highs with 16 goals, 50 assists and 66 points in 64 games, finishing second in scoring for the Western Conference champion Huskies. He was heavily relied upon by head coach Steve Hartley and spent just two minutes in the penalty box.

Alex Huang, Chicoutimi Saguenéens

In his third QMJHL season, all with the Saguenéens, Huang shattered his previous personal best of 40 points by finishing with 70, ranking second among all defensemen. His 11 goals and 59 assists were also career highs. Huang finished second among his peers with a +58 rating and 32 power play points. Used in all situations, the Nashville Predators prospect logged just 14 penalty minutes this season.

Philippe Veilleux, Val-d’Or Foreurs

Veilleux spent much of the season atop the QMJHL scoring race before being edged at the finish line by Maxim Massé. He recorded 96 points, including 43 goals, while serving just 10 penalty minutes. Clearly more comfortable outside the penalty box, he registered 31 power play points (9^th in the QMJHL).

Guy-Carbonneau Trophy | Top defensive forward

Thomas Desruisseaux, Chicoutimi Saguenéens

Desruisseaux enjoyed a career-best season with 76 points (24-52), ranking second on the Saguenéens behind Maxim Massé. Demonstrating his even strength efficiency, only 17 of his points came on the power play, while adding two shorthanded goals. He was the team’s most effective centreman in the faceoff circle with a 57.1% success rate.

Gabe Smith, Moncton Wildcats

Smith broke out this season, improving from 39 to 77 points, good for third on the powerful Wildcats. Of his 34 goals, 18 came on the power play, a league-high. Frequently matched against top opposition, he used his 6-foot-4, 225-pound frame to disrupt opponents. He added two shorthanded goals and was Moncton’s most-used centreman in the faceoff circle (1,170 draws), posting a 58.9% efficiency rate.

Thomas Verdon, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies

Verdon’s 95 points ranked third in the QMJHL, while his 59 assists placed him second. He recorded 36 power-play points (3^rd) and led the league with 10 game-winning goals, helping the Huskies capture the Western Conference title. The 20-year-old veteran also excelled in the faceoff circle (58.8%) and scored three shorthanded goals.

Kevin-Lowe Trophy | Top defensive defenseman

Peteris Bulans, Chicoutimi Saguenéens

Alongside Huang, Tourigny, Lavoie and Bernier, Bulans may not get all the recognition he deserves. Not flashy, but highly effective, as shown by his 40 points and +42 rating. Just two points shy of his career high, the Latvian was a trusted option for Yanick Jean against top opposing lines, late in games and on the penalty kill.

Adam Fortier-Gendron, Moncton Wildcats

When thinking of the Wildcats, names like Desnoyers, Smith, Bleyl and Guimond come to mind. In the shadows, Fortier-Gendron did tremendous work, leading the QMJHL with a +64 rating. He also collected 38 points, including 35 at even strength. In key defensive situations, coach Gardiner MacDougall consistently sent him on the ice.

Félix Plamondon, Shawinigan Cataractes

Plamondon has steadily developed over four years into a reliable defensive presence. His point totals rose from 15 to 21 to 32 over three seasons. Of his 32 points this year, 29 came at even strength. He also posted a +46 rating, far ahead of any teammate. Without being flashy, he became Daniel Renaud’s go-to defenseman to shut down top opponents.

Maurice-Filion Trophy | General Manager of the Year

Gordie Dwyer, Newfoundland Regiment

Dwyer worked hard to help the Regiment finish sixth overall in its inaugural season. Key offseason moves included acquiring Justin Larose and selecting Marek Danicek in the CHL Import Draft—both of whom combined for 160 points. Veteran Dominic Pilote was another strong addition. During the season, Dwyer added Alexis Michaud, Alexis Mathieu, Ryan Dwyer and goaltender Louis-Antoine Denault, stabilizing the crease and helping the team to a top three finish in the East.

Yanick Jean, Chicoutimi Saguenéens

Jean and the Saguenéens had high expectations in 2025-2026, built through the 2022 and 2023 drafts. He made a key move selecting Maxim Schäfer in the CHL Import Draft, then added Tomas Lavoie, Alexis Bernier, Jordan Tourigny, Lucas Beckman, Liam Lefebvre and Mavrick Lachance thanks to in-season trades. Chicoutimi surged in the second half, finishing just one point behind Moncton for first overall.

Taylor MacDougall, Moncton Wildcats

Junior hockey is said to be cyclical—but not for the Wildcats. After winning the Gilles-Courteau Trophy in 2025, Moncton became just the ninth team in QMJHL history to win back-to-back regular season titles. While core players remained, MacDougall strengthened the roster with additions like Tommy Bleyl, Niko Tournas, Teddy Mutryn, Kuzma Voronin and Rian Chudzinski, plus key in-season pickups like Evan Dépatie, Max Vilen and Gavin Cornforth. A winning culture is clearly being built in Moncton with the MacDougalls.

Michael-Bossy Trophy | Top professional prospect

Tommy Bleyl, Moncton Wildcats

Bleyl finished second among rookies with 81 points in 63 games, a QMJHL rookie defenseman record. His 68 assists led the league. Among defensemen, he outpaced Alex Huang by 11 points. Eligible for this June's NHL Entry Draft, many experts now project him as a first-round pick.

Maddox Dagenais, Québec Remparts

After missing 21 games as a rookie, Dagenais broke out this season with 62 points in 62 games. He led his team with 10 power play goals and 25 power play points, while his 273 shots on net ranked fourth in the league. He is ranked 18^th in North America by NHL Central Scouting for the upcoming Draft.

Egor Shilov, Victoriaville Tigres

Shilov led all rookies and finished seventh in league scoring with 82 points in 63 games. He ranked second among rookies with 32 goals and third with 31 power play points, while winning 54.8% of his faceoffs. He is projected as a potential first-round NHL pick.

Michel-Bergeron Trophy | Offensive Rookie of the Year

Alexis Joseph, Saint John Sea Dogs

Joseph ranked sixth among all rookie skaters with 60 points (24-36) in 54 games as the only 16-year-old in the top six. He added 18 power play points and a rookie-leading four shorthanded goals. He will be eligible for the NHL Draft only in 2027.

Egor Shilov, Victoriaville Tigres

Alexey Vlasov, Victoriaville Tigres

Vlasov ranked 10^th in the QMJHL with 80 points in 64 games. His 44 goals ranked fourth overall and first among rookies. He also ranked third with 16 power play goals and fifth with 33 power play points. He was ranked 108^th in North America on NHL Central Scouting's midterm rankings.

Paul-Dumont Trophy | Personality of the Year

Caleb Desnoyers, Moncton Wildcats

Had he not missed 19 games due to a wrist injury, Desnoyers could very well have contended for the scoring title this season, as evidenced by his 1.73 points-per-game average (78 in 45). Beyond the numbers, Desnoyers has been an outstanding ambassador for the Wildcats and the QMJHL, taking part in numerous interviews, community engagements, and social media appearances. No one has been more in demand in the media than the Utah Mammoth’s fourth overall pick in 2025.

Alexis Joseph, Saint John Sea Dogs

Slowly but surely, Joseph is getting used to all the attention that comes with being the first overall pick in the QMJHL in 2025 and a potential top selection at the 2027 NHL Draft. Brilliant on the ice at just 16 years old, with 60 points in 54 games, Joseph has been just as impressive in the classroom, being named the Sea Dogs’ Student-Athlete of the Year and earning a spot among the 18 nominees for the Marcel-Robert Trophy, awarded to the QMJHL’s top student-athlete. He has been a role model on and off the ice.

Glenn Stanford, Newfoundland Regiment

If the Regiment’s inaugural season was a success, it is in part thanks to its President, Glenn Stanford. Very familiar with the St. John’s market and the game of hockey—having worked in the AHL and ECHL, among others—Stanford and his team led the Regiment to a record-setting inaugural season in QMJHL history with an average of 5,233 spectators per game. On the ice, the Regiment finished third in the Eastern Conference and sixth overall. There is a genuine QMJHL buzz in St. John’s, and Stanford is at the heart of it.

Raymond-Lagacé Trophy | Defensive Rookie of the Year

Tommy Bleyl, Moncton Wildcats

Bleyl finished second among rookies with 81 points in 63 games, a QMJHL rookie defenseman record. His 68 assists led the league. Among defensemen, he outpaced Alex Huang by 11 points. Eligible for the NHL Draft this June, many experts now project him as a first-round pick.

Jan Larys, Drummondville Voltigeurs

The third-most used rookie goaltender, Larys led all first-year netminders with 26 wins (26-10-1-1). He ranked second among rookies with three shutouts and a .908 save percentage, and third with a 2.86 GAA. He played a key role in Drummondville’s strong season and ranks fourth among North American goaltenders listed by NHL Central Scouting.

Malik L’Italien, Halifax Mooseheads

Selected third overall in 2025, L’Italien was the third-most productive rookie defenseman, behind Bleyl and Everett Baldwin. Unlike them however, he is just 16 years old. Among Mooseheads blueliners, only veteran Owen Phillips recorded more points. Despite his age, he contributed on both Halifax's power play and penalty kill.

Victoriaville to host the 2027 QMJHL Entry Draft

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:18:49 +0000

The QMJHL announced earlier today, during a press conference, that the 2027 Entry Draft presented by Fenplast will take place at the Colisée Desjardins, in Victoriaville, QC. The event, scheduled for June 4 and 5, 2027, will return to the Bois-Francs capital for the first time since 2011. Coincidentally, the top prospects born in 2011 will be drafted next year. “We are very pleased to hold this important event in Victoriaville. The Tigres organization, led in part by Director of Operations Martin Paquet, will successfully carry out this project in collaboration with the league. The in-person draft is an unforgettable moment for our prospects and their families,” said QMJHL Commissioner Mario Cecchini. “We are very proud to host the QMJHL Draft here in Victoriaville. This event fits perfectly within our performance cycle, especially since we hold two first-round picks and four second-round picks in 2027. It will certainly be very exciting for our fans,” said Martin Paquet, Director of Operations for the Tigres. “This also reflects our vision of organizing major events, as we did last year with the Winter Classic. We would like to thank the QMJHL and the City of Victoriaville for their confidence in delivering this project,” added Mr. Paquet. “Hosting the QMJHL Draft in Victoriaville kicks off a series of exciting sports and economic announcements that we have been working on since the beginning of our term,” said Mayor Vincent Bourassa. “The Victoriaville Tigres generate approximately $15 million in economic impact here. For the Draft itself, we’re talking about roughly $1 million in economic spinoffs, in addition to being an extraordinary showcase for the entire region. “Major investments are currently underway in the hotel sector, which will provide higher-quality accommodations and a wider range of services, with these projects set to be completed in time for the 2028 Jeux du Québec Finals. Hockey, and the Tigres, also represent a strong sense of belonging and pride. From Jean Béliveau to Gilbert Perreault, Alexandre Daigle, Phillip Danault, and dozens of players who have passed through here, to Gabriel D’Aigle, who just signed his professional contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins, hosting the draft and the QMJHL meetings means welcoming the future stars of our league and their families. It means writing another chapter in our history.” While awaiting the 2027 Draft presented by Fenplast in Victoriaville, we remind you that the 2026 event will take place on June 5 and 6, in Halifax. The first round will air on Eastlink Community TV and TVA Sports on June 5, while the ensuing rounds will be available on the QMJHL's YouTube channel.

BMR Student-Athletes of the Month | March 2026

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 13:12:06 +0000

Inspired by its partner BMR, the QMJHL highlights every month student-athletes who, through hard work and perseverance, are building their future both on the ice and in school. The selection is made following a consultation conducted by the Director of the QMJHL Education Program, Valérie Monette, with the teams' educational advisors. "These student-athletes caught our attention as much for their brilliance on the ice as for their commitment to their studies, said Ms. Monette. The QMJHL office, team managers and players are working together to build a solid foundation for the future, both in sports, academics and personal development. Yes, we strive for excellence in sports, but above all, we strive to develop strong and committed citizens." The 18 recipients of the month were selected by the teams' educational advisors, who play a central role in the educational development of our players. Witnessing their perseverance on a daily basis, they support them in building a solid path, guided by discipline and passion. Congratulations to the 18 BMR Student-Athletes of the Month for March! _

Team	Player	Program	Academic Establishment
Baie-Comeau Drkkar	Liam Armit	Secondaire 5	Polyvalente des Baies
Blainville-Boisbriand Armada	Spencer Gill	Business	Athabasca University
Cape Breton Eagles	Lucas Romeo	Business General	University of New Brunswick - UNB
Charlottetown Islanders	Dylan MacKinnon	Business Administration	Athabasca / UNB
Chicoutimi Saguenéens	Alexandre Desmarais	Sciences humaines	CÉGEP de Chicoutimi
Drummondville Voltigeurs	Filip Kovalcik	High School - Grade 12	Trecin (Stredna Sortova Skola)
Gatineau Olympiques	Michel Myloserdnyy	Business	Northern Pre-University - NPU
Halifax Mooseheads	Connor MacPherson	Business General	St Marys University
Moncton Wildcats	Evan Dépatie	Sciences humaines	CÉGEP à distance
Newfoundland Regiment	Alexis Mathieu	High School - Grade 12	Northern Pre-University - NPU
Québec Remparts	Benjamin Lelièvre	Sciences humaines	CÉGEP Limoilou
Rimouski Océanic	Luke Patterson	Business	University of New Brunswick - UNB
Rouyn-Noranda Huskies	Eliot Ogonowski	Sciences humaines	CÉGEP de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue
Shawinigan Cataractes	Frédéric Bergeron	Secondaire 5	Académie des Estacades
Sherbrooke Phoenix	Éloi Bénard	Secondaire 5	Académie des Estacades
Saint John Sea Dogs	Maxime Côté	High School - Grade 12	Northern Pre-University - NPU
Val-d'Or Foreurs	Hemerick Carbonneau	Sciences de la nature	CÉGEP de Val-d'Or
Victoriaville Tigres	Simon-Pier Brunet	High School - Grade 12	Northern Pre-University - NPU

2026 Gilles-Courteau Trophy Playoffs – CATARACTES vs. HUSKIES

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 18:59:09 +0000

The Dogs and the Cats are both coming off series that went the distance. The question of who will win this latest postseason battle between the two clubs will start being answered when Shawinigan travels to Rouyn-Noranda to kick of this best-of-seven Quarter-Final series tonight. It was all going smoothly for the Huskies in round one until it suddenly wasn’t. A young, determined Gatineau squad overcame a three-game deficit to force a seventh and deciding contest in Rouyn-Noranda, a match that saw the Huskies prevail, sending them to round two for the fourth straight year. Thomas Verdon continued on his roll from the regular season, leading the club in scoring through the first round and notching a pair of game-winners, including the overtime clincher in game three. Samuel Beauchemin and Nathan Langlois were also key drivers offensively, while Benjamin Brunelle capped the series off with a game seven hat trick. Rookie Jayden Pominville was a constant presence in front of the opposing net, cashing in at key moments. Antoine St-Laurent and Axel Dufresne were the leaders on the blue line in front of netminder Samuel Meloche. Despite the unpredictable nature of his club’s first round encounter, the Buffalo Sabres draftee’s performance was never in doubt as proven by his three series shutouts. The Cataractes emerged from round one following a hard-fought, seven-game clash versus the Sherbrooke Phoenix. Jiri Klima was the leader offensively, while a group of rookies in Olivier Charron, Dylan Laframboise, Elias Schneider and Frédéric Bergeon all rose to the forefront throughout a series in which Shawinigan had to battle back after trailing three games to two. Félix Plamondon, Julien Lanthier and Mathieu Plante were steady not only on their own blue line but effective in all three zones. Mathys Fernandez proved to be money in the bank when it counted most, playing a pivotal role in back-to-back victories in games three and four and stopping 25 shots in game seven – the only victory for a home team in the series. The Cataractes are making their second straight Quarter-Finals appearance. A victory in the next series would propel the club to the third round in consecutive campaigns for the first time in 24 years. The Cataractes held the upper hand in the season series between the two clubs, winning at home on November 8 and January 4, as well as on the road on January 11. The Huskies captured the most recent contest on their home ice back on March 1. No strangers to postseason clashes, this will be the eight meeting between the two sides. The Cataractes emerged victorious in 2001, 2006, 2012 and 2022. The road to both Huskies playoff titles, in 2016 and 2019, ran through Shawinigan. They also captured the most recent encounter in 2023. _ Team Comparison (Reg. Season):

	Rouyn-Noranda	Shawinigan
Record	40-17-5-2 — 87 Pts	35-23-2-4 — 76 Pts
Conference Rank	1st Western	4th Western
League Rank	3rd	7th
GF	221 (7th)	253 (4th)
GA	178 (4th)	214 (T-10th)
PP (Total)	26.9% (3rd)	19.2% (11th)
PK (Total)	81.4% (3rd)	78.2 (T-9th)
Leading Rookie (PTS)	Rheault (13-18-31)	Schneider (23-30-53)
Leading Scorers (PTS)	Verdon (36-59-95)	Lacerte (38-48-86)
	Beauchemin (16-50-66)	Lygitsakos (21-38-59)
	Steiner (30-25-55)	Schneider (23-30-53)
	Ogonowski (18-31-49)	Klima (28-24-52)
	St-Laurent (10-33-43)	Elie (24-28-52)

2026 Gilles-Courteau Trophy Playoffs – REMPARTS vs. SAGUENÉENS

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 17:00:11 +0000

It’s a good old fashioned rivalry series against a pair of Eastern Quebec adversaries. The latest chapter in the lengthy history between the Chicoutimi Saguenéens and Québec Remparts is about to be written. And it all begins tonight in Chicoutimi. The Sags did in the first round what they did much of the second half of the season; they won with authority. Leading the way in Chicoutimi’s four-game sweep of the Halifax Mooseheads – a series in which the Saguenéens enjoyed a healthy 24-4 overall advantage on the scoreboard – was QMJHL regular season scoring champ Maxim Massé, who leads all players entering the Quarter-Finals with ten points. Emmanuel Vermette and Émile Guité were key factors, especially on the power play, as the Sags scored on over half of their man advantages in round one. Defensively, the group as a whole shut the door while also finding the scoresheet; blueliners combined for an astounding 21 points in the first round, led by the trio of Jordan Tourigny, Alex Huang and Tomas Lavoie. Lucas Beckman was superb as the last line of defense between the pipes. This is Chicoutimi’s second straight appearance in the Quarter-Finals and 25^th consecutive year in the postseason overall. They last reached the Semi-Finals in 2021. The Remparts went toe to toe with the Charlottetown Islanders in round one and earned back-to-back road victories to close out the series in seven games. Defenseman Cal Uens, quite literally, stepped up, leading the club in scoring, providing a game-winner in game three and eating up plenty of minutes. Uens, Maddox Dagenais and Nikita Ovcharov tied for the team lead in goals for a Remparts squad that received contributions from up and down the lineup. Highly rated 2026 NHL Draft prospect Charlie Morrison proved to be a rock on the blue line, while Nathan Quinn was adept at both shooting and distributing the puck, playing a pivotal role on the power play in the process. In the end, with six of the series games determined by two goals or less, the main story was goaltending. In that department, Patrick Deniger held a slight but critical edge, putting an end to the series with a 22-save shutout. The Remparts return to the Quarter-Finals for the first time since their Memorial Cup Championship campaign of 2023. The season series between these two combatants was a one-sided affair, the Saguenéens capturing all seven contests. This will be the seventh clash between the two clubs in postseason action. The Remparts emerged victorious in 2002, 2008, 2013 and 2022. The Sags earned the upper hand in 2005 and 2021. _ Team Comparison (Reg. Season):

	Chicoutimi	Québec
Record	49-10-3-2 — 103 Pts	32-25-6-1 — 71 Pts
Conference Rank	2nd Eastern	5th Eastern
League Rank	2nd	T-9th
GF	321 (1st)	209 (13th)
GA	150 (1st)	191 (5th)
PP (Total)	32.7% (1st)	20.2% (12th)
PK (Total)	87.2% (1st)	78.2 (T-9th)
Leading Rookie (PTS)	Lefebvre (32-27-59)	Ovcharov (17-27-44)
Leading Scorers (PTS)	Massé (51-51-102)	Dagenais (30-32-62)
	Desruisseaux (24-52-76)	Uens (13-36-49)
	Huang (11-59-70)	Ovcharov (17-27-44)
	Vermette (27-42-69)	Lebel (15-17-32)
	Guité (32-33-69)	Straka (10-22-32)

2026 Gilles-Courteau Trophy Playoffs – FOREURS vs. WILDCATS

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 15:48:40 +0000

The crafty Cats are headed to the mines. The first-place Wildcats and the upstart Foreurs get set to clash in their best-of-seven Quarter-Final series starting on Friday night, in Moncton. The Wildcats enter round two in familiar territory; with yet another extended winning streak. This latest one currently sits at 13 games following the club’s first round sweep of its provincial rival Saint John Sea Dogs. Leading the way was one of the newest Cats, Gavin Cornforth. Signed by Moncton in January, the shifty winger led the club with six goals, including a hat trick to kick off the postseason, and the winning tallies in the first two games. With six points, he also finds himself tied for the team’s overall scoring lead alongside Teddy Mutryn, Caleb Desnoyers and Tommy Bleyl. Veterans Preston Lounsbury and Gabe Smith remained their usual two-way forces as seven Cats finished the first round averaging over a point per game and all but one skater recording at least one point. In net, Rudy Guimond steered aside 79 of 84 shots, with 22 of those saves coming in a game three shutout. The Wildcats will now attempt to reach the QMJHL Semi-Final in back-to-back years, a feat never before accomplished by the organization. The Foreurs proved the so-called experts wrong, not only upsetting the Drummondville Voltigeurs but doing so in a tidy five games. While best known for powerful offensive threats in Philippe Veilleux, Maxime Coursol and Nathan Brisson during the regular season – and that trio continues to make an impact – it was Alix Durocher, who spent extended time on the injured list during the year, leading the offensive charge in round one. Another returnee to the lineup, Louis-Charles Plourde, provided both leadership and a nose around the net, particularly early in the series. Xavier Daigle, Anthony Paré and Esteban Cinq-Mars were pivotal on the backend, particularly as the Foreurs contended with the absence of Benjamin Cossette Ayotte for the duration of the series. Overall, the club played a system that was both opportunistic and structured. But the biggest factor was between the pipes in Val-d’Or, where Émile Beaunoyer was equal to the task, notching a 33-save shutout and kicking aside 41 shots in the clincher, leading the Foreurs to their first series win since 2021. Somehow, despite these two franchises accounting for a combined 64 seasons of play in the ‘Q’, this will be the first postseason clash between them. Moncton held the upper hand during the two-game season series, earning a 7-2 triumph at home in October and an 8-2 victory in Val-d’Or in February. _ Team Comparison (Reg. Season):

	Moncton	Val-d’Or
Record	50-10-2-2 — 104 Pts	26-31-4-3 — 59 Pts
Conference Rank	1st Eastern	6th Western
League Rank	1st	13th
GF	302 (2nd)	215 (10th)
GA	164 (2nd)	250 (13th)
PP (Total)	31.8% (2nd)	20.3% (11th)
PK (Total)	82.4% (2nd)	78.3% (8th)
Leading Rookie (PTS)	Bleyl (13-68-81)	Demers (9-10-19)
Leading Scorers (PTS)	Bleyl (13-68-81)	Veilleux (43-53-96)
	Desnoyers (22-56-78)	Coursol (25-44-69)
	Smith (34-43-77)	Brisson (20-44-64)
	Tournas (43-31-74)	Cossette Ayotte (4-34-38)
	Mutryn (31-37-68)	Plourde (13-22-35)

CHL unveils players ranked No. 50 through No. 41 on Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years list

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 19:13:48 +0000

The Top 50 players were identified through a media vote, with the final rankings determined by a weighted combination of media and fan voting. Full player bios are available at chl.ca/chl50.

The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is proud to reveal the players ranked No. 50 through No. 41 on its Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years list (see below), a signature initiative launched as part of the CHL’s 50th anniversary season. The countdown celebrates the greatest players from the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) since 1975-76, honouring the stars who have shaped major junior hockey over the past five decades. As part of the initiative, a panel of media members first identified the Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years (since 1975-76). From there, the final ranking order was determined using a weighted formula that combined media and fan voting to rank the players from No. 1 through No. 50. KEY FACTS & MEDIA NOTES: CHL TOP 50 PLAYERS MEDIA RESOURCES (PHOTOS, LOGOS, VIDEOS & MORE) 50. Larry Murphy, Defenceman | OHL | Peterborough Petes (1978-80) | Los Angeles Kings, Washington Capitals, Minnesota North Stars, Pittsburgh Penguins, Toronto Maple Leafs & Detroit Red Wings (1980-2001): Murphy helped Peterborough win the 1979 Memorial Cup before breaking out for 89 points in 1979-80, earning OHL Defenceman of the Year and OHL First All-Star Team honours. He added 17 points in 14 playoff games as the Petes repeated as OHL champions in 1980. Murphy went on to a Hall of Fame NHL career, winning four Stanley Cups and recording 1,216 points in 1,615 games. 49. Scott Stevens, Defenceman | OHL | Kitchener Rangers (1980-82) | Washington Capitals, St. Louis Blues & New Jersey Devils (1982-2004): Stevens starred on Kitchener’s 1982 championship team, collecting 42 points in 68 games and 11 more in 15 playoff contests while helping the Rangers win both the OHL title and the franchise’s first Memorial Cup. He later became a Hall of Fame NHL defenceman, captaining the New Jersey Devils to three Stanley Cups and winning the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2000. 48. Taylor Hall, Forward | OHL | Windsor Spitfires (2007-10) | Edmonton Oilers, New Jersey Devils, Arizona Coyotes, Buffalo Sabres, Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks & Carolina Hurricanes (2010-Present): Hall led Windsor through one of the most dominant runs in CHL history, winning OHL and CHL Rookie of the Year in 2007-08 before helping the Spitfires capture back-to-back Memorial Cups. He won the Stafford Smythe Trophy (Memorial Cup MVP) twice, the Wayne Gretzky 99 Award (OHL Playoffs MVP) in 2009, and later captured the Hart Trophy as NHL MVP in 2017-18. 47. Brian Propp, Forward | WHL | Brandon Wheat Kings (1976-79) | Philadelphia Flyers, Boston Bruins, Minnesota North Stars & Hartford Whalers (1979-94):One of the WHL’s all-time great scorers, Propp recorded 511 points in 213 regular-season games, won back-to-back WHL scoring titles, and led Brandon to its first WHL championship in 1978-79. He went on to score 425 goals and 1,004 points in the NHL, appearing in five Stanley Cup Finals. 46. Steven Stamkos, Forward | OHL | Sarnia Sting (2006-08) | Tampa Bay Lightning & Nashville Predators (2008-Present): Stamkos scored 100 goals and 197 points in just two OHL seasons, winning the Bobby Smith Trophy in 2006-07 and CHL Top Prospect honours in 2007-08 after a 58-goal campaign. The first overall pick in 2008, he later became a two-time Stanley Cup champion, two-time NHL goal-scoring leader, and 600-goal scorer. 45. Mark Recchi, Forward | WHL | New Westminster Bruins & Kamloops Blazers (1984-88) | Pittsburgh Penguins, Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, Carolina Hurricanes, Atlanta Thrashers, Tampa Bay Lightning & Boston Bruins (1988-2011): Recchi’s WHL career peaked with a 154-point season in 1987-88 with Kamloops, and he finished junior with 292 regular-season points and 50 playoff points. He later built a Hall of Fame career in the NHL, recording 1,533 points and winning three Stanley Cups with three different teams. 44. Guy Carbonneau, Forward | QMJHL | Chicoutimi Saguenéens (1976-80) | Montréal Canadiens, St. Louis Blues & Dallas Stars (1980-2000): Carbonneau was a cornerstone in Chicoutimi, recording 435 points in 274 games, posting back-to-back seasons with 140-plus points, and captaining the Saguenéens. He later became one of the NHL’s premier defensive forwards, winning three Selke Trophies, three Stanley Cups, and a place in the Hockey Hall of Fame. 43. Cam Neely, Forward | WHL | Portland Winterhawks (1982-84) | Vancouver Canucks & Boston Bruins (1983-96): Neely burst onto the WHL scene with 56 goals and 120 points as a rookie in 1982-83, then helped Portland win the 1983 Memorial Cup with a hat trick in the final. He went on to a Hall of Fame NHL career, scoring 395 goals and becoming one of the era’s most feared power forwards. 42. Leon Draisaitl, Forward | WHL | Prince Albert Raiders & Kelowna Rockets (2012-15) | Edmonton Oilers (2015-Present): Draisaitl totaled 216 points in 160 WHL regular-season games, highlighted by a 105-point season in Prince Albert and a standout 2015 playoff run with Kelowna that ended with WHL Playoff MVP and Memorial Cup MVP honours. In the NHL, he became one of the league’s top offensive stars, winning the Hart, Art Ross, Ted Lindsay, and Rocket Richard trophies. 41. Patrice Bergeron, Forward | QMJHL | Acadie-Bathurst Titan (2001-03) | Boston Bruins (2003-2023): Bergeron played just one full season in Acadie-Bathurst, but made it count, setting Titan rookie records with 73 points and 50 assists in 2002-03 and tying the QMJHL rookie record for points in a playoff game with six. He later spent 19 seasons with the Boston Bruins, winning a record six Selke Trophies, a Stanley Cup, and surpassing 1,000 points with the franchise. Further rankings from the Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years list will be revealed in the coming weeks. CHL Top 50 Evaluation Criteria and Eligibility The CHL’s Top 50 Players were selected by a panel of more than 40 media members who submitted ranked 1–50 ballots guided by a weighted evaluation framework designed to ensure consistency across eras. Panelists considered a player’s impact beyond the CHL — including NHL and international success, major awards and championships, and Hall of Fame recognition — alongside on-ice achievement in the Member Leagues, reflecting what players accomplished during their time in the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL through production, individual honours, team success, and sustained dominance. Selections also accounted for historical significance, recognizing milestones, era-defining influence, generational impact, and lasting contributions to CHL history. To be eligible, players must have competed in at least one full season in the WHL, OHL, or QMJHL during the CHL’s 50-year history beginning in 1975–76; for players who competed in 1975–76 and also played prior to that season, their entire CHL career was considered when evaluating on-ice accomplishments.