Michael Hage is making a name for himself at the World Junior Championships.
For the second game in a row, Canada's young forward found himself at the center of the attack, to the point where he was tied at the top of the standings with Will Zellers after two preliminary games. And today he did it in the best possible way.
Top three World Cup scorers so far
1. Will Zellers 3-1-4 (NoDak)
2. Michael Hage 2-2-4 (Michigan)
3. Gavin McKenna 0-4-4 (Pennsylvania)– Brad Elliott Schlossman (@SchlossmanGF) December 28, 2025
The Canadiens forward scored the game-winner in overtime against Latvia in Game 2 of the ECJ, helping Canada to an important victory. In a game that was closer than expected, he was the one who took control when it really mattered.
And that's not all.
Michael Hage had already had a great game the day before, scoring a goal and adding two assists, quickly establishing himself as one of the Canadiens' offensive engines. The result leaves him top of the standings with four points after two games, ahead of several highly anticipated names.
It is clear that Michael Hage is fulfilling his mission.
What makes his performance even more interesting is the line he takes. Teaming with Gavin McKenna and Brady Martin, Hage forms a formidable offensive unit capable of generating offense with almost every presence.
The three complement each other well, play with high intensity and already seem to have developed obvious chemistry.
McKenna brings creativity, Martin plays with his physical strength and speed, and Hage bridges the gap between the two by constantly being involved in big plays. It's no coincidence that this line spends so much time in the offensive zone.
For Montreal Canadiens fans, these performances are especially encouraging given the need to play center. Watching the Habs' top prospect dominate the offense on such a high-profile international stage is sure to get attention and encouragement. And so far, Hage has shown exactly what you'd expect from a player who will likely be a top-six player in the future.
Of course, the tournament is still young and there is still a lot of hockey to be played. But one thing is for sure: Michael Hage did not disappoint and did not go unnoticed.
If he continues like this, it won't just be about points, but leadership and influence at key moments.
And now it's hard to wish for more.
after a while
– Claude Giroux played his 1,300th career NHL game today against the Maple Leafs.
Hello G!
Claude Giroux will play his 1300th game today! pic.twitter.com/BWl1cwUAYB
– NHL (@NHL) December 28, 2025
– Brayden Schenn reaches 700 career NHL points.
This is a big goal for Braden Schenn. #stlblues pic.twitter.com/mGPb96RJ1t
– St. Louis Blues (@StLouisBlues) December 28, 2025
– A tough battle between Curtis Douglas and Luke Kunin in the Battle of Florida.
To the surprise of NOBODY, we have a fight in the Battle of Florida.
Douglas and Kunin throw fists
pic.twitter.com/ykTSD6mSdm
– B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) December 28, 2025
– The ECHL and the Professional Hockey Players Association have reached an agreement in principle to end the strike.
@ECHL & @PHPA have a prior agreement to end the strike
– Elliot Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) December 28, 2025
