close
close

What to expect from Montreal Canadiens prospect Luke Tuch

Posted on by Neons

Now that the Montreal Canadiens have taken care of business by signing their top prospect, Lane Hutson, general manager Kent Hughes can turn his attention to one of Hutson's Boston University Terrier teammates, Luke Tuch.

Tuch was selected 47th overall in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft. Injuries led to a rocky start to his NCAA career as he managed 42 points in 82 games over his first three seasons with the Terriers.

The 22-year-old hit his stride this season, finishing his final NCAA campaign with 10 goals and 20 assists in 39 games. He also served as the team's co-captain, providing much-needed leadership to one of the top teams in the country.

His collegiate career ended Thursday when the Denver Pioneers destroyed the Terriers, beating them 2-1 in their Frozen Four semifinal matchup. Tuch was the only Boston University player to score a crucial shorthanded goal early in the first period.

Luke Tuch contract situation

The Canadiens were rumored to have discussed a potential entry-level contract last season, with Tuch ultimately deciding to return to the NCAA to win a National Championship with Boston University.

Once his time in college is over, it's just a matter of logistics as both sides are interested in signing a deal.

A great approach for the Canadiens would be to sign Tuch to a contract that only starts next season. That would ensure he doesn't opt ​​out of a year on his entry-level contract this offseason, giving the Habs longer control over his rights.

Tuch's camp is likely to seek an immediate deal that would allow their client to become a restricted free agent sooner rather than later if the deal is delayed by a season.

The former may seem like a great option for the team, but the latter could also be beneficial, as it reduces the chances of him becoming a player who can earn significant upside once his entry-level contract is up.

Canadiens fans can look to the latter two signings as examples options In Tuch's case. Defensive end Jordan Harris signed an entry-level contract effective immediately, making the year burn. Jaden Struble, on the other hand, signed an amateur trial before signing the ELC, which began next year.

If you're looking to add a little excitement to your day, be sure to check out the best sports betting apps Ontario has to offer.

What to expect from Montreal Canadiens prospect Luke Tuch

Touch's production has increased significantly this season, which is certainly encouraging, but it also points to a few opportunities to use him.

His ice time on special teams has increased significantly, not to mention he has played several times with 2024 NHL draft prospect Maclin Celebrini on the Terriers' first line.

In other words, don't expect Tuch to set the world on fire with an offensive look.

His offensive potential is limited, which he overcomes with honest effort every shift.

It will take him an AHL season or more to adjust to the speed of professional hockey. That said, Tuch isn't a slow skater, but he doesn't necessarily make plays at the speed he needs to thrive in the AHL or NHL.

At 6'2, 205 pounds, he has the right frame for professional hockey, which should help him carve out a significant role for Canada's AHL affiliate, the Laval Rocket.

As for his ultimate NHL aspirations, it will all depend on how the Canadiens build their roster. If they want a third scoring player in the bottom six, Tuch could become a mainstay in the lineup.

For now, given his scoring pace in the NCAA, the best bet would be to re-evaluate his results once he has had a chance to adjust to his new environment in the American Hockey League.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *