For potentially a fourth consecutive year, the Montreal Canadiens could draft in the top 5 of the next NHL Draft.

While many are disappointed with the team’s start to the season, others are already salivating at the thought of the upcoming amateur draft.

This includes Simon Boisvert, who has already identified the ideal player for the Montreal organization.

On a recent episode of the Processus podcast, the outspoken analyst revealed his choice and it’s defenseman Matthew Schaefer.

Matthew Schaefer Targeted by Boisvert for the Montreal Canadiens

Here’s an excerpt from his statement:

«Matthew Schaefer is the guy who needs to come to Montreal. He’s the player to go after. But no one will have the guts to do it, just like no one had the guts to go after Cale Makar in 2017. It’s Matthew Schaefer.

I’m telling you, the player Montreal should target, the one who could guarantee a Stanley Cup within the next six years, is Matthew Schaefer.» – Simon Boisvert

Once again, Boisvert goes against the grain, skipping over the consensus pick, James Hagens. Instead, he’s betting on another defenseman, despite the Canadiens already having several in their pipeline.

However, the Habs don’t currently have a defenseman like Schaefer in their ranks. Schaefer has the potential to be a true number one. With Lane Hutson struggling defensively, Kaiden Guhle lacking consistency, and David Reinbacher still far from being a top-two defenseman, a player of Schaefer’s caliber is a rare opportunity.

It’s worth noting that Schaefer isn’t exactly a wild card. He ranks in the top 3 on several prospect lists and boasts immense potential. At 17 years old, playing for the Erie Otters in the OHL, he’s amassed 3 goals and 7 assists for 10 points in 8 games. Schaefer is a powerful defenseman with speed and an exceptional understanding of the game.

Check out his style below:

Beyond Schaefer and Hagens, the Canadiens could also consider Porter Martone and Michael Misa. Both currently rank in the top three in OHL scoring and dominate the Ontario Hockey League.

The season is still young, and much can change before the draft. It will be fascinating to see if these four prospects remain at the top heading into the big day.

Here’s the full episode of the Processus podcast: