Canadiens Trying One More Time to Sign Michael Hage

The Montreal Canadiens have not given up on signing top prospect Michael Hage before the start of the 2026-27 season, according to hockey insider Jeff Marek. One has to wonder if they’re making one last pitch to get him into the NHL before possibly considering a trade that would bring them a piece who could help now.

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Hage, selected 21st overall by Montreal in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, just finished his second season at the University of Michigan, where he led the nation in assists and finished third in scoring as the Wolverines advanced to the Frozen Four semifinal. Given that production, many expected him to turn pro. Instead, on April 11, it was announced that Hage would return to Michigan for a third college season.

At the time, reports indicated the decision was amicable, with Elliotte Friedman saying there was no reason to believe either side was unhappy. The Canadiens might still be agreeable, but it could be that they’ve put a quicker timeline on things. On the final day of July, Marek said on his podcast, The Sheet, that he still believes the Canadiens are working to sign Hage, adding a note of caution: “but we’ll see.”

This could also be a situation where things changed; the Canadiens have realized it, and they’re acting accordingly.

Key Factor Might Have Changed Hage’s Position

Michael’s brother Alexander is reportedly no longer planning to play at Michigan this season. Some outlets have speculated that change could influence Michael’s decision, though neither Hage nor the Canadiens have confirmed any link between the two situations.

If Alexander is the reason Michael was locked in on returning, he may not be as married to the decision if his brother isn’t there.

All the while, Montreal continues searching for a second-line center. Alex Newhook and Jake Evans are currently seen as the internal frontrunners for that role. Signing Hage would give general manager Kent Hughes a talented, low-cost internal answer, though asking a 20-year-old to step directly into a top-six role carries risk.

Next: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Jets, Maple Leafs & Oilers Reality Changed