Scout's Notebook: Early contenders for the QMJHL's top prospect

Last year was a down year for the QMJHL. 

The league produced just 12 NHL draft picks, zero first-rounders, and just one second-rounder. 

Meanwhile, both the OHL and WHL produced over 30 picks. The USHL equalled the QMJHL’s total picks in re-entries alone. 

Early into this draft cycle, the QMJHL looks like poised for a rebound year, headlined by Maxim Massé. 

Massé quickly earned a top role on the Chicoutimi Saguenéens last year, potting 62 points in 65 games on his way to winning CHL Rookie of the Year. He’s continued at roughly the same pace this year, showing the same strong supporting skills that made him such an impressive rookie. 

It’s the off-puck game that drives Massé’s success. It’s much more than his understanding of how to get open between defenders or slip behind their backs – it’s