The blueliner was projected to join Ohio State University this upcoming season, but now may stick in the QMJHL.
In an interesting deal, the Quebec Remparts have picked up promising blueliner Maddox Labre from the Victoriaville Tigres in exchange for just a fifth-round pick in the 2028 QMJHL draft.
From the outside, it appeared the 19-year-old Labre was set for the NCAA, with the Ohio State commit seemingly ready to head to school this fall.
But, now, it seems as though the plans may have changed, and perhaps one more year in the Q with a contending Remparts team will serve the Côteau-du-Lac native better.
Maddox Labre will head to the Remparts in a trade. (Photo: Alex Garneau)It was a troubled final season for Labre in Victoriaville, as attitude issues and disagreements seemed to overshadow his performance at times. Namely, he was suspended by the team indefinitely right before the playoffs for a "failure to respect the team's values."
Additionally, the 6-foot-4 blueliner was sat in December for three games for similar concerns. So, a change of scenery was clearly needed, as things were not working out in Victoriaville for the former third-round pick.
If the Remparts both conifrm Labre's arrival and also can make sure he's happy and committed to the group, the upside potential is massive. He's a big and powerful defender, using his frame and very good skating to dominate open ice both with and without the puck.
Quebec is looking to make a run deep into the playoffs this year, with an offence headlined by Maddox Dagenais, Carter Meyer and James Scantlebury. Now, they might have a solid piece to their blue line as well.
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