The Montreal Canadiens have signed defenseman prospect Bryce Pickford to a three-year entry-level contract effective for the 2026-27 season. Pickford, drafted 81st overall in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, is currently excelling with the WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers, scoring 25 goals and 19 assists in 31 games this season. Last season, he contributed significantly to the Tigers' playoff success, helping them win the Ed Chynoweth Cup.

By the Numbers
  • 2023-24 WHL season: 31 games, 25 goals, 19 assists (44 points)
  • 2022-23 WHL season: 48 games, 20 goals, 27 assists (47 points) including 24 points (13 goals, 11 assists) in 18 playoff games
State of Play
  • Pickford is the first from Montreal's 2025 draft class to sign an entry-level contract.
  • Montreal has a strong prospect pool, recently ranked second in the NHL by Daily Faceoff.
What's Next

As he continues to develop in the WHL, Pickford's performance could influence future roster decisions for Montreal, especially with the team looking to strengthen its defense for upcoming seasons.

Bottom Line

Pickford’s signing underscores Montreal’s commitment to building a competitive roster through young talent, spotlighting the potential of their 2025 draft class.