Canadiens Prospect Michael Hage Decides on His Next Move

Michigan Wolverines forward Michael Hage

While TJ Hughes has signed his first pro contract, another top prospect from the Michigan Wolverines, Michael Hage, has made the surprising decision to return to the NCAA for his junior season rather than signing his entry-level contract with the Montreal Canadiens.

Hearing that Michael Hage, the talented Canadiens’ prospect, will return to Michigan for his junior season.

Wolverines lost in Frozen Four this week, Hage will have another chance in 2026-27.
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) April 11, 2026

The Wolverines lost a heartbreaking double-overtime semifinal in the Frozen Four a couple of days ago, and Hage, the Habs' first-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, has taken that time to weigh his next move. The 19-year-old will stay in college for another year.

While Habs fans debated over the last week or two whether the team should add Hage to the roster for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, some observers, including Craig Button, speaking on the Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro, felt that wouldn't be a prudent decision, particularly considering he was injured in the NCAA regionals, and hadn't played in three weeks until last week.

"Michael Hage is not ready for the NHL right now... And is certainly not ready for the NHL playoffs," said Button. "This is a very promising player, I love Michael Hage. I think he'll be a real top-notch NHL player. But I do not think that he's ready for the NHL.

"Given the fact that he played at less than 100% in the national semifinal, and you're the Montreal Canadiens... Who's coming out of the lineup if Michael Hage is going in?"

Yet, Button still felt that Hage would sign a contract with Montreal. That did not happen, much to the disappointment of Canadiens' fans.

Hage was named Big Ten Rookie of the Year in 2024-25 after posting 34 points in 33 games, then broke out for 52 points in 39 games for Michigan this past season, with a plus/minus rating of +15. He was selected with the 21st overall pick by Montreal in the 2024 Draft.

Hage will turn 20 this coming week (April 14).