Justin Poirier was the top scorer in the QMJHL and nearly in the entire CHL this year. The Drakkar forward had to wait until the 5th round of the NHL draft.
Despite scoring 69 goals combined in the regular season and playoffs, the agile offensive player was selected in the 5th round, 156th overall, by the Carolina Hurricanes.
He never garnered attention from NHL scouts and teams throughout the season despite consistently finding the back of the net night after night.
Justin Poirier wasn't invited to the Top Prospects game this winter, nor was he invited to the NHL Combine.
The Hurricanes may have made a steal with a player who has a keen eye. The Quebec native didn't hide his disappointment at not being drafted by his childhood team, the Montreal Canadiens.
However, he responded well to the question and understood that it might not have been the ideal fit for his playing style.
Justin Poirier mentioned to the media that he understands why the #Habs didn't pick him.
"They already have a lot of small players, and maybe it's better this way even though I would have loved to join my childhood team."
- Stéphane Le roux via X/Twitter
Nevertheless, could the Canadiens have taken a chance with one of the Quebecois players chosen in the draft? Asking the question answers it...
