Photo credit: Chris Nicoll-Imagn Images
An excellent acquisition by Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens is drawing plenty of attention today.
The comparison is certainly one that Montreal Canadiens fans will appreciate.
The analyst gave the Canadiens an “A” grade for the first-round selection. A flattering verdict for Kent Hughes’ 26th overall pick in 2026.
The name Lawson Crouse was obviously not chosen at random here.
He represents the big, physical winger who thrives on playing a heavy game but is also capable of contributing offensively.
That’s exactly the mold in which Pronman sees young Gleb.
A power forward profile, but with a little something extra.
Right winger Pugachyov stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 198 pounds at just 18 years old.
A Montreal Canadiens acquisition praised by several experts
This is an imposing player who skates well and possesses genuine offensive skills.
“Pugachyov is a big, heavy winger who skates well and has good offensive skills.”
– Corey Pronman
He loves the combination of talent and intensity.
“The pure tools in his game jump out at you, and when you add that he plays with some bite, it’s an exciting combination of traits.”
Pronman still points out a few minor concerns.
He notes some minor questions about Pugachyov’s hockey sense and creativity with the puck.
But according to him, the athleticism more than makes up for it.
Pugachyov is so competitive that an NHL coach will give him significant minutes regardless.
He sounds like a player built for the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The kind of player you love to have on your team and hate to play against.
We’ll see whether Pugachyov can become a Lawson Crouse-or even surpass him.
Lawson Crouse, 29, is a 6-foot-4, 214-pound winger who recorded 44 points in 81 games this season, including 24 goals.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
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Excellent acquisition by Kent Hughes confirmed as Canadiens winger draws Lawson Crouse comparison
Does the comparison to Lawson Crouse make you optimistic about Gleb Pugachyov?