It's been two years since Kent Hughes and the current Canadiens management have been in place, and they're heading towards their third amateur draft together.
In 2022 and 2023, fans were surprised, even disappointed, by their selections.
Juraj Slafkovsky was not a unanimous choice as the first overall pick in 2022. Many people wanted Shane Wright, but so far, it must be acknowledged that Slafkovsky was by far the right choice.
In 2023, fans were hoping for Matvei Michkov, but the Canadiens, despite a serious need for a forward, chose defenseman David Reinbacher.
This was difficult for many people to accept. Reinbacher even received personal threats following his selection.
In short, the situation could be similar this year. According to Arpon Basu, Kent Hughes and his team might turn to a player outside the top 10.
"Arpon Basu on the idea of Beckett Sennecke getting picked at #5;
"People need to get their heads around that possibility. It's possible."
Sennecke is projected to be selected between the 20th and 30th positions on many lists. Imagine the uproar if the Canadiens pick him at 5th.
We can't rule out Tij Iginla either. Jarome's son is expected to go between the 10th and 15th positions, but the Canadiens like him a lot. Kent Hughes has met with him several times.