PUBLICATION
L. Honein
September 8, 2025Â Â (11:42 PM)
Photo credit: NHL
There is a lot of talk about Michael Hage as being the next second-line center for the Montreal Canadiens.
It’s a big surprise, because the Russian forward was drafted as a winger, not as a center. But Ufa Salavat Yulayev, his team in the KHL, is currently developing him at the center position.
Preseason games at center for Alexander Zharovsky in the KHL
As reported, Zharovsky started his team’s first preseason game at center on the third line. He finished that game with an assist and a missed attempt in the shootout.
In his second game, his highlight was a spectacular goal after winning a battle along the boards.
A promotion to the 2nd line for Zharovsky
In his 3rd game, the 34th overall pick of the 2025 draft found himself centering the second line.
He played over 18 minutes and even saw time on the power play. What’s interesting here is that during this game, he won more faceoffs than he lost.
Enough to make several people raise their eyebrows.
It will be interesting to see the young man’s progression over the next year. If the Canadiens can indirectly see a player develop at a position that is not for everyone, it would be a huge bonus.
Especially if he has good moments at that position.
Previously on HabsFanatics