Montreal Canadiens training camp is still very young, but we can already see some of the club’s hopefuls standing out. Filip Mesar is definitely one of them.

After making a good impression at Buffalo rookie camp last week, he was deployed in the middle of a line completed by Cole Caufield and Mike Hoffman during an intrasquad game Saturday morning.

The Slovakian, who was drafted by CH in the first round of the last draft (26th overall), was clearly visible throughout the practice. Fast, available and lively in his actions, the young man also impressed Caufield, who did not hesitate to throw flowers at him at a press conference.

“He’s easy to play with,” he commented. He is always on the move and has a lot of energy. He looked very good today.”

But no talk of beating. Caufield will be going full throttle, although he appreciates the talent of the young hopefuls at camp.

“I’m trying to beat them all! he started. That’s how I see things. But it’s good to have competitive players [qui poussent]. I like the young players we have.”

“My attitude is to prove to myself that I deserve to be there. I think that will be my mindset for all camps. It won’t be too comfortable. I’ll just keep working to get better.”

Mesar, who has to get used to the smaller ice rink than in Slovakia, where he played until last season, was also grateful for this chance. However, this presents him with an additional challenge as he usually plays on the right wing.

However, the 18-year-old won’t complain.

“It’s a good experience for me. I play with two NHL guys. I feel like it’s easier on the ice. I really appreciate it,” he began.

“It’s hard to get through the face-offs,” he added of the challenge of this new position. And I think the middle player is [une position] more difficult because they have to play defensively. But I do not care; I do what the coaches want from me.”