Montreal Canadiens Make Decision on Future of Controversial Prospect Logan Mailloux

The Montreal Canadiens have made a decision on where Logan Mailloux, a first-round draft pick who comes with a controversial history, will start the season.

Mailloux asked teams not to draft him in 2021 saying he wanted to concentrate on reconciliation and growth. Mailloux made it public that he had been fined in Sweden at the age of 17 for taking and sharing photos of a young woman he was engaged with sexually. Montreal drafted him 31st overall anyway, causing a storm of controversy. Mailloux was later suspended for a total of four months by the Ontario Hockey League, with the Canadiens promising to work with him to ensure he took responsibility and was accountable.

Mailloux saw some action during the preseason this year, and earned some praise from his coaches. However, the Canadiens have ultimately decided he will start this season with the Laval Rocket of the AHL.




The AHL wasn't the team's only option. Mailloux could have gone back to the OHL for his overage year. The decision to send him to Laval is a sign that the team sees promise and wants him to continue his development. How he will be greeted by fans when he finally plays in the NHL remains to be seen.