3 Reasons Revealed for Michael Hage's Decision To Reject Canadiens Contract

There were plenty of hockey fans in La Belle Province extremely disappointed upon hearing the news on Saturday that top prospect Michael Hage has decided to forego signing his entry-level contract with the Montreal Canadiens. The soon-to-be 20-year-old has chosen to return to the Michigan Wolverines for next season. 

Some in Habs Nation were even wondering whether the 2024 first-rounder has changed his mind about being a Canadien. 

Insider Elliotte Friedman has revealed several reasons that Hage has decided to extend his college education for another year. But first, he has a message for Habs fans:

There is no reason to panic. They hold his rights for two more years. There is no reason to believe that Hage is unhappy with the Canadiens, and there is no reason to believe that the Canadiens are unhappy with Hage and will try to trade him. 

The two sides had a nice in-person meeting a couple of weeks back to talk about the possibilities for Hage, both for the rest of this hockey season and going forward. "They told him that there is no wrong decision here."

Next, Friedman went on to outline three main reasons that Hage made this move to stay in Michigan for his junior year.

No. 1, an increased role in Michigan next year, even more than he had this year.

No. 2, unfinished business: they lost in the Frozen Four.

No. 3, the possibility that his brother could join the Wolverines and play there (with him). 

Hage and the Wolverines suffered a crushing double-overtime loss in the Frozen Four semifinal a few days back. He broke out this season for 52 points in 39 games for Michigan, with a plus/minus rating of +15. It's likely he could take over as captain for next season with TJ Hughes turning pro, and having signed his entry-level deal with a Stanley Cup contender.

Hage was selected with the 21st overall pick by Montreal in the 2024 Draft. He will turn 20 this coming week (April 14).

Photo: © Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images