Every two weeks, exceptional performances by Quebec players in the NHL are highlighted. Jonathan Huberdeau of the Calgary Flames has been outstanding, accumulating 11 points in seven games. Jonathan Drouin has also shone with his selfless play, contributing significantly to the Colorado Avalanche. Zachary Bolduc of the St. Louis Blues is rising fast, scoring four goals recently. Meanwhile, Anthony Beauvillier is impressing in Washington, solidifying his place in the Capitals lineup after a trade.
Every two weeks, we spotlight remarkable performances by Quebec players in the NHL. Today, we focus on the games played from March 12 to March 26.
Huberdeau Shining Bright
Jonathan Huberdeau, the talented winger, is having an outstanding season since joining the Calgary Flames, and his momentum shows no signs of slowing down.
Over the last two weeks, Huberdeau has racked up five goals and six assists, totaling 11 points in just seven games, one of which celebrated his 900th career NHL game. This remarkable performance stands out as the finest by a Quebec player during this timeframe.
Currently, Huberdeau boasts 57 points in the 2024-2025 season, surpassing his previous best of 55 points he achieved in Calgary last season, 2022-2023.
With 27 goals to his name, he is well on his way to reaching the coveted 30-goal milestone for the first time since the 2021-2022 season, when he played for the Florida Panthers. If he accomplishes this feat, it will mark the third occasion he has hit this target in his NHL career.
His impressive performance comes at a crucial moment, as the Flames are heavily involved in the playoff race in the Western Conference. Before Thursday’s games, Calgary was enjoying a four-game winning streak.
Recently, Huberdeau was paired with Morgan Frost and Matt Coronato after being separated from Nazem Kadri, with whom he had previously found success. Despite this change, he has continued to dominate on the ice.
“I believe it adds more depth to our lineup when we split up,” Huberdeau stated. “As a player capable of leading a line, I just need to deliver the puck to Matty, and he’ll find the back of the net. While playing with Kadri works, separating us allows both lines to thrive.”
Drouin Delivers
Jonathan Drouin has faced challenges this season, having only played 39 games, but he has made an impact, scoring 35 points at a remarkable pace.
With one goal and six assists in six games, Drouin ranks as the second most productive Quebec player in the league over the past two weeks.
A dedicated player for coach Jared Bednar, Drouin recently gained attention for his unselfish decision that led the Avalanche to victory against the Canadiens last Saturday.
As Bednar prepared to send him into the shootout, Drouin selflessly suggested that Brock Nelson take his place, believing Nelson’s skills would better challenge Canadiens goalie Samuel Montembeault.
“I was going to go with Drouin, but he told me to send Nelson because his technique would beat Montembeault,” Bednar explained post-game. […] “So it was Drouin who made that call.”
This decision proved beneficial, as Nelson, who consistently performs well against the Canadiens, capitalized on the opportunity.
Drouin is certainly having a great season, and it’s well-deserved!
The Rise of Bolduc
Zachary Bolduc of the St. Louis Blues has emerged as the third-highest scoring Quebec player in the NHL over the last two weeks.
The Trois-Rivières native’s performance has been impressive; he scored four goals and added two assists in eight games recently. Since the conclusion of the 4 Nations Showdown, he has tallied nine goals and three assists across 17 games.
Last Tuesday, the 22-year-old netted his first goal against the Canadiens during a dominant 6-1 victory for the Blues, who are currently on a seven-game winning streak, making them the team to beat in the NHL.
“The Blues’ power play revolves around Zachary Bolduc,” remarked TVA Sports journalist Renaud Lavoie on Wednesday during “JiC.”
“It’s [Robert] Thomas who consistently needs to find Bolduc to outsmart the opposition’s goaltender,” he added. “This young player is truly captivating right now.”
“This kid is on track to quickly become the top Quebec player in the National Hockey League,” he concluded.
In Summary
Anthony Beauvillier is rapidly becoming a fan favorite in Washington. Since being acquired from the Pittsburgh Penguins at the trade deadline, the Sorel native has contributed two goals and two assists in eight games with his new team.
“I’m impressed by the speed with which he plays,” Capitals coach Spencer Carbery stated last Saturday.
“That’s not all; he’s also very relentless with the puck,” he added. “He’s unafraid to venture into challenging areas, whether it’s the corners or in front of the net, which is beneficial. He’s become a vital addition to our team.”
Lastly, the recent all-Quebec matchup between Mathieu Olivier and Bokondji Imama was certainly an exciting event to witness!