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Ivan Ryabkin, Dynamo Moskva (Photo Credit: Dynamo Moskva)

Montreal Canadiens’ 5 First-Round Targets in 2025 NHL Draft

Originally posted on The Hockey Writers
By William Bourget | Last updated Mar 17, 2025 3:50 PM ET

The success of any rebuild in the NHL ultimately hinges on a team’s ability to draft effectively. For the Montreal Canadiens, this summer’s 2025 NHL Entry Draft is a crucial step in completing their ongoing rebuild and laying the foundation for sustained success. While trades, free-agent signings, and player development all play important roles, drafting wisely is what can truly elevate a team from the bottom of the standings to legitimate contenders. In Montreal’s case, having two first-round picks gives them a rare opportunity to make multiple high-impact selections. If the draft was today, the Habs would be drafting 17^th and 18^th overall.

5 – Cameron Schmidt, Right Winger, Vancouver Giants, WHL

Cameron Schmidt is a dynamic, explosive forward who possesses nearly all the qualities you’d want in a smaller offensive player. Blessed with incredible speed, rapid acceleration, and sharp agility, Schmidt stands out as one of the best skaters in the whole Canadian Hockey League (CHL,) particularly in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Vancouver Giants. His skating allows him to be a constant threat in transition, whether he’s leading the rush himself or finishing off a quick stretch pass. He’s a player who can make something happen in the blink of an eye, using his skating to create clean scoring chances for himself and his teammates.

Standing at 5-foot-7 and 157 pounds, he isn’t a very imposing player and his frame could be an issue at the next level. Even as a small player, Schmidt has still recorded 76 points in 59 games for the Giants this season. While Schmidt’s height might raise some concerns, his talent is undeniable. His elite skating, deadly shot, and impressive playmaking abilities make him a potential game-changer, and his upside could outweigh any questions about his size.

4 – Ivan Ryabkin, Center, Muskegon Lumberjacks, USHL

Ivan Ryabkin has long been regarded as one of the top Russian prospects, often mentioned in the same breath as other highly touted players like Ivan Demidov and Matvei Michkov. At the age of 16, he set the Russian Minor Hockey League record for points in a season with 58 in 44 games, surpassing Michkov’s mark. After a rocky start to the season, Ryabkin joined the Muskegon Lumberjacks on Dev. 31, where he has recorded up to this date 11 goals and 19 points in 18 games.

He’s the kind of player who excels at managing the game. He’s calm under pressure, poised with the puck, and can break down defences with his patience and precision. Whether it’s at even strength, on the power play, or in critical situations, Ryabkin has the skill set to control the flow of the game, making him a highly-valuable asset in all areas of the ice. The Russian prospect has some solid upside and could down the line be Montreal’s second-line centre.

3 – Lynden Lakovic, Left Winger, Moose Jaw Warriors, WHL

Lynden Lakovic is a player who stands out for his natural playmaking ability and puck skills, coupled with solid speed and size. Rather than using his body to dominate physically, he relies on his agility and vision to create offensive chances. Lakovic excels at controlling the puck through transitions and setting up his teammates with pinpoint passes, showing his flair for offensive creativity. His skating is smooth and fast, and he’s capable of making high-speed plays that keep defenses on their heels.

Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 190 pounds, Lakovic could develop in a solid power-forward. He has shown some flashes at times but has yet to rely on that full time. Lakovic’s combination of size and skill makes him an intriguing prospect for many NHL teams, and particularly for a team like the Canadiens. This blend of power and finesse is exactly what teams look for when building a well-rounded forward group.

2 – Justin Carbonneau, Right Winger, Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, QMJHL

Justin Carbonneau is a highly skilled and versatile forward who stands out for his ability to consistently create offense. At the heart of his game is his explosive speed and puck control, which allow him to navigate through defences with ease and set up scoring chances both for himself and his teammates. Carbonneau is not just a fast skater, he has the physicality to engage and protect the puck while driving through the neutral zone or battling along the boards. With 89 points in 61 games, Carbonneau is second in scoring in the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League this season.

Bringing Carbonneau into the fold would be an exciting option for the Habs, especially given his roots in the province. Having a local player with such a dynamic skill set and offensive potential could create a real connection between the team and its passionate fanbase. Quebec-born players often resonate strongly with local fans, and Carbonneau’s development and eventual success in the Canadiens’ lineup would not only be a boost to the team but also to the province’s hockey culture.

1 – Carter Bear, Center/Left Winger, Everett Silvertips, WHL

Carter Bear is the type of player who is built to make an impact at the NHL level. With his relentless work ethic and ability to dominate physically, he’s a force in the CHL, whether it’s winning puck battles, outmuscling opponents, or driving the forecheck. His competitive edge is undeniable, and he’s consistently found in the thick of the action, making life difficult for opposing players.

But what’s really making people take notice is Bear’s offensive development. While he’s always had a strong presence as a checking forward, he’s also become a legitimate offensive threat. At the time of writing, he has already scored 40 goals and tallied 82 points in 56 games. He’s dangerous in tight spaces, consistently finding ways to generate scoring chances right in front of the net. His ability to handle the puck at speed and make plays under pressure has added a new dimension to his game, and it’s becoming clear that he’s more than just a physical presence.

It would be a surprise if Bear is still available when the Canadiens are picking at 17th or 18th in the draft. However, if one of Montreal’s picks slips in the draft order and Bear is still on the board, he would be a fantastic option.

With two first-round picks, the Habs are in an enviable position, especially given the depth of talent available in the 2025 draft class. The chance to select players who can bring immediate impact while also contributing to the team’s long-term success is a unique opportunity that Montreal can’t afford to waste.