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The Montreal Canadiens picked a familiar name when they drafted Parker Trottier late in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft. Yes, he’s the grandson of Hall of Famer Bryan Trottier, but we’d be better off not comparing the two as Parker develops in the junior ranks.
Besides, there’s already an overabundance of pressure being drafted by an NHL team, particular one that resides in a hockey-crazed market such as Montreal.
Without further ado, let’s discuss what Trottier can bring to the table for the Canadiens.
Previously published Montreal Canadiens top 20 rankings
- Prospects Who Missed the Cut (Filip Mesar, Aatos Koivu)
- No. 20 – Alexis Cournoyer Has Interesting Potential
- No. 19 – Yevgeni Volokhin Is Producing Elite Numbers
- No. 18 – Sam Harris Is A Classic Dark Horse Prospect
No. 17 – Parker Trottier – 18 – Left Wing- Shoots Left – 6’1″ – 185lb – USNTDP – Drafted 189th Overall In 2025
Trottier is the type of player who seemingly never runs out of energy, using his efficient motor to apply pressure on the forecheck, not to mention land heavy body checks whenever the opportunity arises. Another way of putting it, is that opponents hate playing against Trottier, as he never takes a shift off. He forces you to work harder and smarter, which usually leads to an advantage in the war of attrition. He’s also used regularly on the penalty, due to his lively skill set.
His modus operandi focuses on stealing pucks or forcing turnovers, a style of play that definitely improves the odds his team will win once the final whistle blows. He possesses an above average shot, with a solid release, and he does a great job protecting the puck whenever his teammates need time or space.
On that note, it’s also fair to say that offence is not necessarily the name of the game for this particular prospect.
In 2024-25, Trottier had just four goals and one assists in 39 games for the Under-17 program, while scoring three goals in 26 games for the USNTDP Juniors.
In 2025-26, Trottier scored 11 goals and 16 assists in 61 games for the Under-18 program, not to mention eight goals and six assists in 24 games for the Juniors.
He’s improved his scoring significantly, but not to the point that we’d be able to argue he’s producing enough to eventually ascend to the NHL. Fortunately, he has plenty of time to work on his offensive game, as he’s still a year removed from joining the NCAA.
Trottier’s Path To The Pros
Trottier is set to join the WHL next season, having signed a deal with the Regina Pats. This is an interesting journey, as he will spend time in three leagues over the course of three years, quite a hectic schedule. However, the WHL is the perfect setting for a player who is attempting to find his offensive rhythm. The goals come with more frequency, and due to the long list of players who have made their way to the NCAA, there are many more opportunities to become a key player in the WHL.
It should be noted that Regina struggled last season, finishing fourth in the East Division with a 25-34-7-2 record, though things change quickly in Junior hockey. If Regina adds a few more key names to insulate Trottier, in addition to Samuel Karsay and Tomas Cermak, they’ll be in much better shape.
“They have a great coach,” said Trottier. “It’s only been positive with him. I have a good relationship, there’s a lot of trust. I’m just looking forward to it.”
David Bell, Regina’s head coach, recently spent almost 10 years in the AHL, where he served a head coach for the Belleville Senators. Prior to being hired to the Senators, he also spent a significant amount of time in the CHL, with the Niagara Ice Dogs, and the Barrie Colts.
Beyond the WHL, Trottier is set to join the University of Notre Dame the following year, where he will learn important skills, both on and off the ice. While the CHL offers players an education and improved coaching, the NCAA is truly the first significant step to making it to the professional levels. It also ensures they focus on their post-secondary education, which is always critical for players drafted in the later rounds.
All Montreal Canadiens prospect information via Elite Prospects.
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