Michael Hage is too good for the WJC: He really looks ready for the NHL

Canada won yesterday's match against Finland.

And what do you know?

Once again, Michael Hage singled. He was one of the forwards his coach used most often because he creates something new every time he takes the ice. The Canadiens prospect had two assists in his team's win and once again showed off his talent. His tournament will not go unnoticed.

MICHAEL HAGE DOES IT AGAIN

This baby is so legit #GoHabsGo
pic.twitter.com/kdJrPyTyeG

– Cam (@Cweitz99) January 1, 2026

In fact… it goes further than that.

With eight points since the start of the tournament, Hage finished the qualifying stage as the tournament's top scorer. (two goals and six assists). He's Canada's best striker right now and arguably the most dominant player at the World Juniors.

This leads me to say this: If the tournament ended today, I would want Hage to be named the competition's MVP. And it's crazy how much his popularity is growing in the hockey world:

Michael Hage became a regular part of the media scandals after the game. #WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/icKCCoX5Dc

— Stephen Ellis (@SELLisHockey) January 1, 2026

We knew Michael Hage was good.

He performed well at the Canadiens' most recent development camp last summer and is having a really good NCAA season with his team. With 28 points in just 20 games, he established himself as one of the favorites to win the Hobey Baker Trophy.

But…

To see him dominate on the international stage like he is now is even more special. This shows that he is not afraid of important moments and can pen pressure.

Has anyone ever told you that there is a lot of pressure in the Montreal market?

At least this is really encouraging for the future. And even then, seeing how good he is now, it's hard not to worry about the future.

He'll have a big job to fill when he plays for the Canadiens, but he certainly seems up to the challenge…

Behind the scenes

– The Leafs have been doing well for the most part lately.

#Leaves PP units in the morning skate

Rielly
Maccelli, Nice, Matthews
Tavares

Ekman-Larsaon
Domi, McMann, Robertson
Roy

PP has 4 goals in the last 3 games.

– Tony Ambrogio (@Tony_Ambrogio) January 1, 2026

– Great job!

Happy New Year from our captain and mates!
Happy New Year from our captain and mates! pic.twitter.com/KSBix1LNJh

– Laval Rocket (@RocketLaval) January 1, 2026

– Please pay attention.

Full lineups and stats ahead of tonight's game between the Canadiens and Hurricanes in Carolina (7 p.m., TSN2, RDS) #Habs: pic.twitter.com/5RKz7ULHTa

– Stu Cowan (@StuCowan1) January 1, 2026

– Tomorrow is the day.