Montreal Canadiens: Habs Prospects Look to Impress in Training Camp

Training camp officially begins on Friday for the Montreal Canadiens.

So, after two months of speculating about which forward general manager Pierre Gauthier would sign before camp, we finally have our conclusive answer: none.

It looks like, as I had suspected, Gauthier is happy with his squad.

I'm expecting Andreas Engqvist to have a good camp and possibly start the season with the Habs. Realistically, he's a bottom-six forward—just what the Canadiens are in need of. I have a feeling that it’s his job to lose.

Louis Leblanc will be flat out disappointed if he doesn't make the Hamilton Bulldogs this season. He feels like he has accomplished all that he can in the juniors and is ready to take the next step.

Another forward to look at will be Aaron Palushaj who is eager to impress the Habs' brass. The 22-year-old scored 57 points in 68 games for the Bulldogs last season.

He may have what it takes to become a proper top-six forward with the right development, and I'm not sure that means promoting him to the Habs just yet. There shouldn't be any rush; I think it would be great for both he and Leblanc to play on the same team and build up each others' confidence.

I'm very excited to see the new additions on defense—especially Alexei Emelin.

The Russian should bring some grittiness and intensity that fans of the team haven't been privy to since the departure of Michael Komisarek. Along with an edge, the 6'2", 220 lbs. Emelin has also demonstrated an ability to score: tallying 26 points in 52 games with Ak Bars Kazan in the KHL.

If Emelin doesn't pan out and make the team (which is something that I highly doubt) he will be heading back to Russia after making it clear that he will not play in the AHL.

Rafael Diaz is an offensive threat as a defenseman who should end up starting the year with the Bulldogs simply because there isn't any room for him on the big club. Still, it will be interesting to see how he adjusts to the North American style of play, having only ever played in Switzerland.

Honestly, I’d like to downplay my excitement, but I feel like I’ve been waiting forever for the NHL season to start.

I’m especially looking forward to two things in this year’s addition of the Montreal Canadiens’ camp: seeing the integration of Erik Cole on his new team and watching Max Pacioretty play the game that he loves.

I think you will all agree that it has been a long summer and we can all use some hockey—even if it is just the preseason.

Jason is on Twitter: @jhytel