With the 2025 NHL Entry Draft fast approaching, the Montreal Canadiens find themselves in an enviable position. Armed with two first-round picks (16th and 17th overall), as well as selections in the second, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh rounds, the Habs have a significant opportunity to bolster their prospect pool and address organizational needs. While the focus naturally gravitates towards the top selections, mid-round picks can often unearth hidden gems and valuable contributors. Here are five potential mid-round targets for the Canadiens in the 2025 NHL Draft:
1. Jonas Woo (Medicine Hat Tigers, WHL): Smaller defensemen always come with a degree of risk, but Jonas Woo might be one of the most intriguing late-round gambles in this draft class. The younger brother of Vancouver Canucks prospect Jett Woo, Jonas stands at just 5-foot-9 and weighs around 165 pounds, but his size doesn't stop him from playing an impactful game. What he lacks in stature, he makes up for in confidence, skating, and offensive instincts. Woo had 43 points in 57 games for the Medicine Hat Tigers this season, displaying the kind of dynamic puck movement and mobility that teams covet in the modern NHL. He's particularly strong in transition, using his edges and lateral movement to beat forecheckers and jumpstart the rush. While his defensive zone coverage still needs polishing, his ability to retrieve pucks and escape pressure is solid.
2. Aidan Park (Green Bay Gamblers, USHL): Aidan Park was on many radars last season as a potential mid-round selection but went undrafted. This season, he made sure not to go unnoticed. Park posted 33 goals and 33 assists in just 55 games in the United States Hockey League (USHL), a true breakout season. With improved finishing, better consistency, and a more refined offensive game, Park has positioned himself back into draft consideration.
3. Radim Mrtka (Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL): Mrtka is a right-handed defenseman. The Canadiens have a need to get one to pan out. Mrtka, has a two-way presence and gives them a great security blanket.
4. William Moore (NTDP, Center): Moore is a rangy pivot who has the tools but just needs to get stronger to become more consistent. Montreal can take a swing here in hopes that he puts things together to reach his upside.
5. Daniel Prokarov: He’s a big strong boy that has really good hands in in tight, hits hard he he um he’s one of the better hitters in in the draft class, Canadiens need that especially at playoff time.
It's important to remember that draft rankings and projections are not an exact science. Many factors can influence a player's development and trajectory. The Canadiens' scouting staff will undoubtedly conduct thorough evaluations and identify players who fit their organizational philosophy and long-term vision.