Canadiens' Late-Round Pick L.J. Mooney: A Potential Hidden Treasure Discovered in the NHL Draft
  • 690 views
  • 2 min read

L.J. Mooney, drafted 113th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, is quickly becoming a prospect to watch. The Canadiens may have found a "draft-day gem" in the fourth-round pick. Despite not having a first-round pick, Montreal still managed to find talented players, including Mooney.

Mooney's skill set is dynamic. He combines quick-twitch handling with quick feet, attacking at a breakneck speed. Mooney’s performance at the Canadiens' development camp has further fueled excitement. In scrimmages and skill drills, Mooney has showcased his high-end skill set, standing out as one of the most dynamic forwards on the ice. His vision, quick hands, and ability to dictate play in the offensive zone have been particularly noticeable.

Standing at 5'7" and weighing 157 pounds, Mooney is undersized compared to the average NHL player. Size concerns contributed to him being available in the fourth round. However, Mooney doesn't let his stature limit his game. He plays with a high-energy, all-gas-no-brakes style, demonstrating a competitive streak. He compensates for his lack of size with elite skating, speed, and agility, allowing him to control the game's pace and create scoring opportunities. He is also known to land a surprising amount of big hits for someone his size.

Before the draft, some scouts suggested Mooney possessed first-round talent. Steven Ellis of Daily Faceoff noted Mooney's first-round talent, energetic style, and skill but acknowledged the size concern. Scott Wheeler of The Athletic highlighted Mooney's skill, skating, and success as an underager with the 2006s. Despite a "disappointing season" due to injury issues, Mooney's compete level remains high. He told reporters he carries a chip on his shoulder, using his size as motivation.

Mooney's offensive capabilities are noteworthy. In 51 games for the U.S. National Team Development Program (NTDP) this year, he recorded 10 goals and 41 assists. During the 2024-25 season with the U18 U.S. National Team, Mooney scored 10 goals and had 41 assists in 51 games. He also had 5 goals and 23 assists over 26 games for the USNDTP Juniors. At the 2025 U18 World Junior Championship, he contributed 2 goals and 9 assists in seven games. Mooney stood out at the development camp, displaying excellent vision, threading passes through traffic, and consistently finding open teammates.

Looking ahead, Mooney is set to join the University of Minnesota in 2026-27. In the meantime, he is expected to play in the USHL or CHL for the upcoming season. The Canadiens have a history of success with smaller players, including Cole Caufield and Lane Hutson. Martin St. Louis, the Canadiens' head coach, was also overlooked due to his size but had a Hall of Fame career. The Canadiens are providing Mooney with an environment to develop and use his size to his advantage.


Writer - Priya Joshi
Driven by social justice, a commitment to advocacy, and a passion for sports, Priya is focusing her early journalistic efforts on highlighting inequality and marginalization in her community. She's learning to report on sensitive topics with empathy and accuracy, ensuring vulnerable voices are heard. Her dedication to sports also fuels her understanding of fair play and collective effort, principles she brings to her reporting.
Advertisement

Latest Post


As the Indian cricket team gears up for the Asia Cup 2025, all eyes are on the squad selection, which is set to be announced today, August 19, in Mumbai. The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, faces a complex task of balancing current form, es...
  • 127 views
  • 2 min

As the Asia Cup 2025 approaches, cricket analysts and fans are buzzing about the possible composition of the Indian squad. The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, faces some tough decisions balancing current form, workload management, and the n...
  • 267 views
  • 3 min

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce the 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025 today, August 19. All speculations will be put to rest as the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, convenes in Mumbai to finalize the t...
  • 457 views
  • 2 min

The Indiana Fever and their fans are holding their breath, awaiting news on Sophie Cunningham's knee injury sustained during their recent game against the Connecticut Sun on August 17, 2025. The incident occurred in the second quarter when Sun guard ...
  • 262 views
  • 2 min

Advertisement
Wayne Rooney has voiced his strong opinions on the persistent issue of racism in football, recounting a distressing experience during his time managing DC United in Major League Soccer. Speaking on his new BBC podcast, "The Wayne Rooney Show," the fo...
  • 323 views
  • 2 min

The Edmonton Oilers have been actively exploring the European market to bolster their forward depth, particularly after signing David Tomasek. While Tomasek is expected to compete for a spot on the NHL roster, reports indicate that the Oilers also co...
  • 186 views
  • 2 min

Leeds United celebrated their return to the Premier League with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Everton at Elland Road, thanks to a late penalty from debutant Lukas Nmecha. The match, decided by a controversial handball decision, saw Leeds dominate fo...
  • 308 views
  • 2 min

Leeds United celebrated their return to the Premier League with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Everton, secured by a late penalty from debutant Lukas Nmecha. The match, played at a packed and vociferous Elland Road, saw Leeds dominate for long stretches...
  • 413 views
  • 2 min

Advertisement

About   •   Terms   •   Privacy
© 2025 SportsBuzz360