Discussing Logan Mailloux’s Likelihood of Making the Opening Day Roster

Logan Mailloux has an asset that the Montreal Canadiens value: he shoots from the right side. 

It's not the only reason why the highly touted prospect could end up in the NHL soon. But with the slew of defensemen clogging up the depth chart, it will be difficult for him to make the opening-day roster.

In his first season in the American Hockey League, things could not have been better for Mailloux. He registered 47 points in 72 games with the Rocket — the most among AHL rookie defensemen — while amassing 91 penalty minutes and a minus-eight rating. In his one game in the NHL, he had an assist.

The Habs have made one move this off-season that cleared up space on the blue line, trading Jonathan Kovecevic to the New Jersey Devils for a fourth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. But there would have to be another significant transaction that opens up a spot for Mailloux.

Mailloux’s main competition on the right side of the blue line is Justin Barron, who has both experience and the fact that he would need to clear waivers to be sent to Laval. Barron has not panned out as the Habs had hoped. Last season, Barron registered 16 penalty minutes compared to 13 points in 48 games for the Canadiens.

As for Mailloux, he was the Rocket’s representative at the AHL All-Star game. Additionally, he proved to be a suitable linemate with Arber Xhekaj, during Xhekaj's brief stint in the minors. If the Canadiens want, the chemistry between the two blueliners — along with the combination of physicality and their knack for puck-hounding — could make them the perfect third-pair.

As mentioned, the Canadiens are deep on defense and Mailloux has competition. 

Kaiden Guhle has shown that he can play on his off-hand, and GM Kent Hughes has openly discussed the negotiations between the Habs front office and Guhle’s management team to sign the 22-year-old defenseman to an extension.

David Reinbacher has more professional hockey time under his belt than Mailloux, but as he played in the Swiss National League, he's yet to get used to the North American style of play. The Canadiens think the world of Reinbacher though, as shown by his selection with the fifth overall pick at the 2023 Draft. 

It will be difficult for Mailloux to be with the Canadiens on the first day of regular season play, he will have time to prove himself throughout the Summer and during pre-season play. Until then, Mailloux may have to bide his time in the AHL before he makes the NHL roster.