Quebec goaltender William Lacelle emerges as potential Canadiens target

For the past few years, the Canadiens have been stockpiling goaltenders in their organization, because development at that position is unpredictable.

At the 2023 draft, Kent Hughes added Jacob Fowler at 69th overall, then Quentin Miller in the fifth round.

When you hold several tickets, you increase your chances of hitting the right number. And now another name is circulating for the 2026 draft.

William Lacelle, of the Rimouski Océanic, is said to have had discussions with the Canadiens, among about ten teams. Today, he turned 18 and will be eligible for the upcoming draft.

His numbers are turning heads-and not just in Rimouski. The young goaltender has reportedly spoken with several NHL teams, including the Montreal Canadiens. In addition, the Océanic have indicated that he will not be traded during the trade period.

In his junior career, including both regular season and playoffs, he has 45 wins in 75 games, with a 2.68 goals-against average.

His career save percentage stands at .907, according to figures published around the Océanic.

On the Canadiens' side, the context of the 2026 draft is clear: Montreal no longer has its fifth-round pick. That pick was included when the club traded Carey Price to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for defenseman Gannon Laroque.

That leaves the Canadiens with one fewer door to select a late-round goaltender, but it doesn't prevent discussions.

Obviously, talking to a young player doesn't mean he'll ever wear the jersey. Canadiens scouts talk to people everywhere, and this kind of file can move quickly.

But if William Lacelle continues to sit near the top of the leaders, he'll remain a name that gets people talking.