LJ Mooney Could Be Another Steal

If you were to describe Mooney’s play, it would have to be a mix of a playmaking Cole Caufield and Brendan Gallagher. He has elite offensive talent similar to Caufield and the fierceness of Gallagher, but is probably a better hitter than the Habs grinding veteran was at that age. Despite only being 5’7 and 160 LBS, Little John (yes, that’s his actual name) Mooney wants to hit everything he can on the forecheck. His grinding style of play could allow him to be the future replacement for the heart and soul of Gallagher. 

However, if Mooney makes it to the NHL, he has the ability to be an even better version of Gallagher with his elite skills. 

During the 4-game World Junior Showcase, the American forward allowed his game to do the talking as he scored 2 goals and an assist. He also managed to continuously be a menace to defenders with his forechecking game. Check out some highlights from his game against Sweden. 

It will be interesting to see if he makes the U.S. World Juniors squad, but he has the skill. The one thing that likely prevents him from making the team is the same reason why he fell to the 4th round in the draft, which is his small stature. 

If they do cut him from the final World Junior squad, he will likely find a way to prove them wrong once again. The good news is that at last year’s U18 World Championships, he got his chance to play, and Mooney finished tied for the team lead in points with 11 in 7 games. His performance helped Team USA capture the Bronze medal.

When taking that into account, there is a good chance he can find himself playing at the upcoming World Juniors tournament. Unlike I mentioned yesterday, with Michael Hage being able to play any role on Team Canada, if Mooney makes his national team, it would almost certainly have to be in the top 6, as his size still makes it very hard for him to play a true checking role. 

Mooney’s next challenge will be the University of Minnesota, where he is about to enter his freshman season. College hockey may be tough to start, but if one guy can overcome challenges in the Canadiens’ prospect pool, it’s Little John Mooney. The American will have a good opportunity to build up his game in Minnesota before moving over to the AHL or the NHL. If you ask me, Mooney may be one of the most intriguing prospects in the Habs pipeline, as if he hits, there is a high reward, but since he is a 4th rounder, it is also a low-risk.