Montreal prospect Michael Hage (2024 draft, 1st round 21st overall) is off to a torrid start at the University of Michigan, already registering 9 points (4G 5A) in 4 games for the Wolverines. This includes a two-goal effort last Friday versus the Providence College Friars, featuring Anaheim’s 3rd ranked prospect Roger McQueen (2025 draft, 1st round 10th overall). Thus far this season, the 6′ 5″ McQueen has not shied away at all from physical contact, frequently engaging in loose puck battles and finishing his checks with gusto. The possible hesitation on McQueen’s part to partake in this aspect of the game was a huge concern entering the season, as a fractured vertebrae cost him almost all of 2024-25. Nonetheless, McQueen and company have helped the Friars to a #14 ranking in the polls. Due to much early season success by Hage and others, the Wolverines have shot up the rankings to claim the fourth spot in the rankings.
In addition to Hage, Calgary prospect Henry Mews (2024 draft, 3rd round 74th overall) also has been a major contributor to the Wolverines’ success. Following up on an 82-point campaign in the OHL (14G 68A) in 2024-25, the offensively-gifted D-man has four assists in four games for U of M.
Transitioning to the AHL, Boston forward prospect Fabian Lysell (2021 draft, 1st round 21st overall) is thriving in Providence, despite his disappointment in not making the Bruins’ opening night roster. Lysell has 4 points (3G 1A) so far, including registering a hat trick in Providence’s home opener versus Charlotte.