MONTREAL — Michael Hage, the Montreal Canadiens' promising first-round draft pick from 2024, is reportedly set to return to the University of Michigan for a third season, delaying his professional debut with the organization.
According to Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman, the 19-year-old center will forego signing an NHL entry-level contract this offseason and instead remain with the Wolverines. Friedman shared the news on social media Saturday, noting that Michigan's recent elimination from the NCAA tournament provided Hage with another opportunity to chase a national title in the 2026-27 season. "Hearing that Michael Hage, the talented Canadiens’ prospect, will return to Michigan for his junior season," Friedman posted. "Wolverines lost in Frozen Four this week, Hage will have another chance in 2026-27."
The Canadiens selected Hage, a 6-foot-1, 199-pound forward, 21st overall in the 2024 NHL Draft. During the 2025-26 season, he recorded 13 goals and 39 assists for 52 points in 39 games with Michigan, along with a plus-15 rating. His performance helped the top-ranked Wolverines compile a 31-8-1 record, though their campaign ended Thursday night in Las Vegas with a 4-3 double-overtime loss to Wisconsin in the Frozen Four semifinals. Michigan, seeking its first NCAA championship since 1998, fell short of advancing to the final, where Denver later defeated Wisconsin 2-1 to claim a record 11th title and third in the last five years.
While the decision means Canadiens fans will wait longer to see Hage in Montreal or with the American Hockey League's Laval Rocket, experts suggest it aligns with his ongoing development. TSN director of scouting Craig Button, appearing on The Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro on Friday night, emphasized that Hage is not yet prepared for the NHL level. "No. Not at all," Button said when asked if Habs supporters could expect Hage in the playoffs. He pointed to an ankle injury that sidelined Hage for much of the NCAA regionals, limiting his participation until just three weeks before the semifinals.
Button, who watched Michigan's semifinal matchup, described Hage as far from full strength. "I watched the game last night with Michigan against Wisconsin," he added. "Michael Hage wasn’t close to 100 per cent. Not even close to 100 per cent. So it’s going to be interesting to hear what reports we get out of Michigan and Montreal." Button doubled down on his assessment during the podcast, stating, "Michael Hage is not ready for the NHL right now. Not ready for the NHL and certainly not ready for the NHL playoffs."
He contrasted Hage with other high-profile prospects like Ivan Demidov, calling Hage a "very, very different player" but one with significant potential. "I love Michael Hage. I think Michael Hage is going to be a real top-notch NHL player," Button said. "I do not think that he’s ready for the NHL given the fact that he played, in my view, less than 100 per cent in the national semifinals." To illustrate his point, Button used a metaphor: "You know what he is? He’s a green tomato. Tony, you’re going to make green tomato sauce? I don’t think so."
Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes addressed the topic earlier this season, indicating a measured approach to Hage's future. When questioned about the possibility of Hage turning professional after the college year, Hughes replied, "It’s something we will discuss when his season is over." He revealed having attended three of Hage's games in Minnesota recently but avoided direct conversation to prevent distraction. "I didn’t talk to him because I didn’t want to bother him. I imagine that he’s thinking about it now on his own, but we don’t want to add that distraction to him," Hughes said.
Hughes expressed optimism about Hage's trajectory, adding, "We feel he’s heading the right direction to be ready (to turn pro), but we’ll make that decision when we have to." This cautious stance appears to have influenced the outcome, as reports indicate the organization supports Hage's choice to stay in college.
Further insight came from Hage's agent, Pat Brisson, who spoke to TVA Sports on Saturday night. Brisson explained that his client aims to build physical strength, enhance leadership qualities, and potentially assume a captaincy role with Michigan next season. "Hage wants to stay at Michigan to add muscle, gain more leadership and possibly be team captain next season," Brisson said. He confirmed the Canadiens' backing of the plan, suggesting alignment between player ambitions and team strategy.
The timing of Hage's announcement follows Michigan's postseason exit, providing a natural breakpoint for such decisions. In a related development, Hage's teammate T.J. Hughes signed an NHL entry-level contract with the Colorado Avalanche on Saturday. The undrafted 24-year-old forward, in his fourth and final season at Michigan, tallied 22 goals and 35 assists for 57 points in 40 games. Hughes, a Hobey Baker Award finalist recognizing the top NCAA player, represents a contrast to Hage's path, opting for pro hockey after exhausting college eligibility.
For the Canadiens, Hage's return to Michigan comes amid roster considerations. The team faces potential departures after the 2026-27 season, with five forwards—Brendan Gallagher, Phillip Danault, Josh Anderson, Kirby Dach, and Joe Veleno—eligible to become unrestricted free agents. Retaining young talent like Hage could factor into long-term planning, especially as the organization rebuilds following years of lottery finishes.
Hage's college tenure has already showcased his skills in a competitive environment. As a freshman and sophomore, he adapted to Big Ten play, contributing to Michigan's consistent contention for titles. The Wolverines' Frozen Four run, despite the semifinal heartbreak, highlighted the program's strength, with Hage logging key minutes even while nursing his injury.
Button's endorsement of the delay underscores a broader philosophy in player development: patience often yields better results than premature promotion. He noted a common adage in hockey circles: there are many players who arrived in the NHL too early and paid a price, but few who came too late. This perspective resonates with the Canadiens' patient approach under Hughes, who has prioritized gradual integration for prospects.
Looking ahead, Hage's junior year could position him for a stronger entry into professional ranks. With added size and experience, he might target a more prominent role on a contending Michigan squad. For Canadiens supporters, the wait extends, but the consensus from scouts and insiders points to a worthwhile investment in his growth.
As the NHL offseason unfolds, Hage's story remains one of optimism amid the team's transitional phase. While immediate gratification eludes fans, the prospect's trajectory suggests a bright future, potentially culminating in a championship pursuit—whether in Ann Arbor or Montreal.