The Montreal Canadiens were expected to sign top prospect Michael Hayes over the weekend, now that their team is out of the NCAA Frozen Four.
The University of Michigan was upset by the University of Denver in the semifinals, losing a 4–3 decision in double overtime. Hayes was sparingly used, as he was dealing with an injury that caused him to miss the previous elimination game.
However, according to reports, Hayes will return to the NCAA to play his junior season, which means he will not join the Montreal Canadiens until the end of the 2026–27 season. This development is quite surprising, given that most insiders assumed a deal was imminent, and yet, beyond the disappointment of failing to add a high-end prospect to the mix, the decision makes sense when evaluating all angles.
seeing the forest for the trees
While Hayes represents the team's best hopes to ultimately fill the No. 2 center spot internally, it is questionable whether he will be able to provide an immediate impact when making the jump from amateur to professional hockey, which is one of the biggest challenges any young player will face early in his career.
By staying in the NCAA for an additional season, not only would Hayes have another chance to win a national championship, thus erasing the bad taste left in his mouth by his recent elimination, it would also allow him to fine-tune some aspects of his skill set that are not considered ready for the NHL, including his defensive positioning.
He will still be considered Montreal's top prospect after the season ends, and it is highly unlikely he will want to waive his rights, and sign with another NHL club. More likely, once he signs his entry-level contract, the Canadiens will get a polished player who is fresh off a dominant season as one of the best athletes in the NCAA.
