Alex Newhook has never amassed more than 33 points in a season in the National Hockey League, but he’ll explode in Montreal, predicts one of his former coaches.

A guest on Wednesday night’s Tony Marinaro podcast, Jerry York ran Newhook for two years at Boston College in the NCAA. He believes the 22-year-old forward will become an impact player at center Montreal Canadiens starting next year.

“A 60-point production in the center of the second line is quite possible in the next two years,” he said. I think a lot of people will be surprised, but it will happen.

With Newhook, the Canadians add another small forward to a group already consisting of Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki. However, his size is not representative of his physical activity on the ice.

“He’s 1.75 meters tall, maybe 1.75 if you want to be more specific, but he’s really well built,” York said. He’s strong as an ox on his skates.”

The trademark of Newhook remains above all its speed.

“He’s an exceptional skater. Even among the National League players, I would say his skating is top notch,” York said.

And while he sees Newhook as a center player with good vision and plays, the hockey player believes the young forward will excel by scoring numerous goals.

“He has a chance to be a goalscorer,” he said. He storms into the net with conviction and without the slightest fear. […] He can also do a lot of damage. [avec sa vitesse et cette mentalité].”