Photo credit: All Habs / NHL
It took several weeks to see him in action, but young Hayden Paupanekis finally returned to the ice last night, and it’s safe to say he didn’t miss a beat.
The Montreal Canadiens prospect, absent since even before rookie camp due to mononucleosis, scored his first goal of the season in his return with the Kelowna Rockets.
Marco D’Amico posted about it, noting that Paupanekis was back in action for the first time in several months.
A great story for Paupanekis, who scored in his very first game – a well-deserved reward after a clearly challenging period for him.
“Habs prospect Hayden Paupanekis, in his first game back from mononucleosis, pots his first goal of the season.”
– Marco D’Amico
Hayden Paupanekis Finally Back on the Ice and Scores Right Away
At the time we learned this, many observers were talking about an absence that could last for months.
Mononucleosis is known to drain the body and slow young athletes’ development.
However, Paupanekis seems to be regaining his form quickly.
“For his size, Hayden Paupanekis shows surprisingly smooth and fast mobility.
He’s a reliable, smart player who takes care of the little details coaches ask for.”
– Pascal Lapointe from TSLH Espoirs
In a context where several Canadiens prospects are developing well, Paupanekis could become an important player in a few years. It’s still early, but you never know!
Wishing him a great season and, above all, a healthy one.
POLL
33 MINUTES AGOÂ Â Â |Â Â Â 9 ANSWERS
Canadiens Prospect Hayden Paupanekis Scores in First Game Back After Long Absence from Illness
Do you think Hayden Paupanekis could make the Canadiens’ NHL roster within three years?