Bryce Pickford for the Medicine Hat Tigers. Image credits: Instagram/brycepickford27
Bryce Pickford for the Medicine Hat Tigers. Image credits: Instagram/brycepickford27
Bryce Pickford has had quite the 2025-26 season with the Medicine Hat Tigers, and Montreal Canadiens fans are looking forward to watching him take the ice in red, blue, and white. The Canadiens had predicted his rise, having drafted the defensive prospect back in round 3 of the 2025 NHL Draft with the #81 overall pick.
Pickford’s season with the Hat Tigers in the Western Hockey League (WHL) has been nothing short of extraordinary. His offensive capabilities won him the WHL Player of the Year award on May 6. The Montreal Canadiens posted the achievement on X on June 15, as well as two other awards he won this season.
“WHL Defenseman of the Year
WHL Player of the Year
CHL Defenseman of the Year
Have yourself a season, Bryce Pickford “
As the Canadiens’ post suggests, Pickford was named WHL Defenseman of the Year and Canadian Hockey League’s Defenseman of the Year as well.
The aggressive defenseman took on an offensive role to provide his team with ample goals.
Through the 55 games that he played in the regular season for the Medicine Hat Tigers, he scored an astounding 45 goals. He coupled this with 38 assists for a total points tally of 83.
Pickford became the only defensive player to find a place in the CHL’s top 10 goal scorers for the 2025-26 season.
The defenseman obtained a rating of +55, not something fans would expect from a third-round pick. But Pickford is showing the world that he is ready to take center stage in the Montreal Canadiens roster.
With the Canadiens’ general manager, Kent Hughes, looking for roster changes, Pickford may find a way into the big leagues sooner than expected.
Montreal Canadiens Fans Optimistic About Bryce Pickford’s Impact
The Canadiens reached the Eastern Conference Finals in 2026, but were defeated by the eventual champions, the Carolina Hurricanes. After a disappointing end to their season, the fans find renewed hope in the Canadiens’ prospect, Bryce Pickford.
One fan commented, “Another fine hope for the Canadians who promises.”
Another fan was impressed by Pickford’s stats in the 2025-26 season and excited to see him play for the Canadiens.
“This kid is off the charts with his numbers in the WHL this season past. I hope he ain’t a flash in the pan. This could be something special with this kid. Good luck in the offseason Bryce.. can’t wait to see you in a Habs jersey, “they wrote.
Another fan agreed, noting that Pickford would be an asset to the Habs, commenting, “Gonna be a demon on our team.”
Some other fans were struck by Pickford’s looks rather than his game, commenting, “When you look like a stud from the 70's, you're serious NHL material”
Another fan agreed with this sentiment, while also acknowledging Pickford’s skill.
“habs just keep getting more and more talented and handsome.”
In Bryce Pickford, the fans find the hope that the Canadiens will win their 25th NHL Championship.
Do you think Bryce Pickford will find a place on the Montreal Canadiens roster soon? Let us know in the comments.
