Chicago Steel forward and top 2024 NHL Draft prospect Michael Hage was honored with the E.J. McGuire Award of Excellence at the NHL Awards on Thursday night
Chicago Steel forward Michael Hage received the E.J. McGuire Award of Excellence at the NHL Awards on Thursday. Since 2015, the award is given a candidate who best exemplifies commitment to excellence through strength of character, competitiveness, and athleticism.
“Michael Hage’s determination and play in the USHL this season, embodied every element that defines the E.J. McGuire Award of Excellence,” said Dan Marr, Director of NHL Central Scouting, in a statement. “He performed with a passion and purpose for the Chicago Steel that highlighted his strong character and leadership abilities. Michael exemplifies what it takes to pursue one’s aspirations with conviction and he has a bright future ahead of him.”
Hage, who signed a tender agreement with the Steel in April 2022, missed most of the 2022-23 season with a shoulder injury. However, he orchestrated a strong first full USHL campaign this past year, tallying 33 goals and 42 points, making his 75 points the fourth-most among all skaters in the league.
The University of Michigan commit had an outstanding performance in the second half of the 2023-24 season, scoring 51 points on 23 goals and 28 assists. Hage is the No. 10-ranked North American skater by Central Scouting for the 2024 NHL Draft and is anticipated to hear his name called in the first round on Friday night.
Previous Winners
2022-23: Connor Bedard
2021-22: Lane Hutson
2020-21: William Eklund
2019-20: Zayde Wisdom
2018-19: Brett Leason
2017-18: 2017-18 Humboldt Broncos
2016-17: Nico Hischier
2015-16: Neil Doef
2014-15: Travis Konecny