The Habs May Have Found a Hidden Gem In L.J. Mooney

Every year, there’s one late-round NHL Draft pick that flies under the radar during that weekend. For the Montreal Canadiens, that player might just be L.J. Mooney.

In case you haven’t heard of him, Mooney is a 5'7 center who last played for the U.S. National U18 Team. In this year's draft, the Canadiens selected him in the fourth round, 113th overall. At first glance, it’s easy to see why he fell to Day 2 of the draft: his size. NHL teams often pass on smaller players due to concerns about physicality and how their game will translate at the professional level. But based on everything we’ve seen so far, Mooney lack of height may not be a problem for him.

He’s been turning heads at development camp all week, flashing high-end skill, and hard work ethic. I watched most of the red versus white scrimmage and Mooney didn't back away and did not shy away from playing the body.

The production backs it up, too. Everywhere Mooney has played, he’s been at least a point-per-game player. He plays fast, aggressive hockey and isn’t afraid to go to the dirty areas. Next season will be a real test for him as he heads off to play Division 1 college hockey at the University of Minnesota — a massive step in his development and one that will give fans a better look at just how close he might be to the pro level.

It’s also worth noting that Montreal has a great track record of success when it comes to developing undersized talent. Brendan Gallagher was an after overthought when he was selected by the team in 2011 in Round 5 and has turned out to be one of the most beloved players in franchise history. Cole Caufield, once thought to be too small to dominate in the NHL, has already become a star. And Lane Hutson, another undersized gem, went onto win the Calder Trophy this past season as the NHL's top rookie. If anyone can turn LJ Mooney into a legit NHLer, it’s the Canadiens.

He may not stick at center long-term — his size and style likely project better as a winger — but there’s a lot to like here. Mooney plays with swagger, skill, and no fear. Fans in Montreal are already excited if Mooney can eventually find his way onto the big club through hard work and development.

He has a long way to go, but if development camp is any indication, the Habs might have unearthed one of the biggest steals of the 2025 NHL Draft.

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