With the 2024 Upper Deck NHL Draft fast approaching on June 28-29 in Las Vegas, all eyes are on Chicoutimi forward Maxim Masse, a player known for his clutch performances and goal-scoring prowess. The 18-year-old has garnered significant attention for his ability to make a difference when it matters most, evidenced by his impressive seven game-winning goals this season.
Masse’s knack for coming through in critical moments was on full display during his two seasons in the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). Among his most memorable moments was a game-winning goal against Rimouski on January 29, 2023, where he netted a decisive shot through the legs of the opposing goalie, securing a 3-2 victory for Chicoutimi.
“I grew up in Rimouski and my grandfather had season tickets, so he always bought me a ticket and I was there with him,” Masse recalled. “I was really young, so we had to leave early, but I had a lot of fun in those days watching the Oceanic.”
Masse’s passion for the game is evident in his play. Selected third overall by Chicoutimi in the 2022 QMJHL draft, Masse has made significant strides in his development, influenced by his father, Luc Masse, a former QMJHL defenseman. “My dad has helped me with the mental part of the game instead of the skills part. He’s always been there for me since I started playing hockey when I was 4 years old,” Masse said.
Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 190 pounds, Masse has been a standout performer for Chicoutimi. He was named Canadian Hockey League rookie of the year last season, racking up 62 points (29 goals, 33 assists), 20 power-play points, and six game-winning goals in 65 games. This season, he led his team with 36 goals, 75 points, 28 power-play points, and seven game-winning goals in 67 games. His playoff performance was equally impressive, contributing six points (three goals, three assists) in eight games.
“I’d say I can score a goal from far away with my shot or when going to the net, but I can make plays for my teammates too,” Masse explained. “I feel I can play well in my zone as well, so I’m a two-way forward.”
Jean-Francois Damphousse of NHL Central Scouting praised Masse’s scoring ability and potential. “What we like is the scoring ability; he’s scored everywhere he’s played. He’ll need to add some strength to his lower body, which will help him physically,” Damphousse said. “He’s not a puck carrier, a transporter or line driver, but I think at the next level he can be a 6-foot-2 body on the wing who can finish around the net.”
Ranked No. 30 on NHL Central Scouting’s final list of North American skaters, Masse is seen as a promising prospect with a bright future. “If you draft a kid like Masse, he’s going to be in a good situation for the next two years competing for championships, scoring goals. He’s got a big body, so there’s a lot to like,” Damphousse added.
Drawing inspiration from Buffalo Sabres forward Alex Tuch, Masse aims to emulate his style of play. “He’s a big guy and can score goals and plays well in his zone too, so I think that’s a great comparable,” Masse said. “The compete and the mental side of the game are important as you develop because everybody at the highest level has got the skills to be there. But it’s the one who is tougher mentally that goes through … the one that always competes and wants to get better.”
As the NHL Draft nears, Maxim Masse’s ability to perform under pressure and his scoring talent make him a prospect to watch. Teams looking for a forward who can make a significant impact in crucial moments will undoubtedly have their eyes on Masse.
