Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
This is a very interesting acquisition by Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens, and one we’re starting to learn more and more about.
We’re talking about young Hayden Paupanekis, who already knows exactly which player he wants to model his game after.
The Montreal Canadiens prospect named his role model during his most recent media availability.
That role model is someone you know well.
The choice is no coincidence. The two players share a fairly unique physical profile, even though Paupanekis is technically a centerman.
Paupanekis is also a big-bodied player.
The center stands 6-foot-5, a frame that certainly brings Anderson to mind.
Hayden Paupanekis sees Josh Anderson as the ideal model for his NHL future
Anderson is a realistic and attainable example of the type of NHL player Paupanekis hopes to become.
The veteran is coming off a 23-point season in 72 games with the Canadiens, but once again, it was his impact in the Stanley Cup Playoffs that really stood out.
He’s not a prolific scorer, and that’s exactly the point.
Anderson stands out because of his physical game, speed, and toughness around the net.
That’s exactly the type of role Paupanekis wants to fill.
A forward opponents hate playing against, the kind of player who wears them down game after game.
“He models his game after Josh Anderson”
Selected 69th overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, Paupanekis represents a long-term investment. The kind of prospect whose potential unfolds over time, but with his size, we’re very curious to see what the future has in store for him.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
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6-foot-5 Canadiens prospect says he models his game after Josh Anderson
Has Hayden Paupanekis chosen the right role model in Josh Anderson to build his game?