Maxim Masse from Chicoutimi of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League has a talent for delivering in crucial moments.
Among his 13 game-winning goals in two QMJHL seasons, the standout was in 2022-23 against Rimouski, the team he cheered for as a child.
“I grew up in Rimouski. My grandfather had season tickets and always took me along,” Masse reminisced. “I was really young, so we had to leave early, but those days watching the Oceanic were a lot of fun.”
On January 29, 2023, Masse received a lead pass, broke away, and slipped the puck through Rimouski goalie Gabriel Robert’s legs with 3:52 remaining, securing a 3-2 win for Chicoutimi.NHL.
“We all play hockey to enjoy every moment and to win games,” said the 18-year-old forward. “I thrive on being on the ice when the game is tied or we’re down by a goal. I want to make a difference. Everyone does, but I believe I’m pretty good in those moments.”
Chicoutimi picked Masse third overall in the 2022 QMJHL draft. His father, Luc Masse, a former defenseman, played one season in the QMJHL with Saint-Jean in 1989-90.
“Playing in the ‘Q’ is a dream,” Masse said. “My dad told me the game has changed since he played—it’s less physical now and there’s less fighting. But he has always helped me with the mental aspect of the game. He’s been there for me since I started playing at age four.”
Standing at 6-foot-2 and 190 pounds, Masse has been a powerhouse for Chicoutimi. He was named Canadian Hockey League rookie of the year last season, scoring 62 points (29 goals, 33 assists), 20 power-play points, and six game-winning goals in 65 regular-season games.
This season, Masse led Chicoutimi in goals (36), points (75), power-play points (28), and game-winning goals (seven) in 67 regular-season games. He also contributed six points (three goals, three assists) in eight QMJHL playoff games, ranking third on the team.
“I can score from a distance or close to the net, and I also set up plays for my teammates,” Masse explained. “I consider myself a two-way forward, effective in both offensive and defensive zones.”
Masse, who won the Mike Bossy Trophy as the QMJHL’s top professional prospect, is ranked No. 30 on NHL Central Scouting’s final list of North American skaters eligible for the 2024 Upper Deck NHL Draft.
“His scoring ability is impressive; he’s been a consistent scorer at every level,” said Central Scouting’s Jean-Francois Damphousse. “He needs to strengthen his lower body, which will enhance his physical play. While he’s not a primary puck carrier, he can be a valuable 6-foot-2 winger who finishes around the net. Chicoutimi is a young team on the rise, and they’ll be strong in the coming years.
“Drafting Masse means getting a player in a good situation, competing for championships and scoring goals. He’s got a big body, and there’s a lot to like.”
Masse, who is likely to remain a winger in the professional ranks, admires Buffalo Sabres forward Alex Tuch.
“He’s a big guy who scores and plays well in his zone, a great comparison,” Masse said. “The mental aspect and compete level are crucial as you develop. Everyone at the highest level has the skills, but it’s those who are mentally tougher and constantly strive to improve that succeed.”
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