The QMJHL’s 57th season kicks off on September 18th, promising to be one of the most intriguing in recent memory. With a wave of talented rookies entering the league and top draft-eligible players looking to boost their NHL prospects, the year ahead could shape the future of Canadian hockey.
From franchise cornerstones to breakout candidates, here are some of the top young QMJHL players to watch in 2025-26 and beyond.
Xavier Villeneuve – D, Blainville‑Boisbriand Armada (2026 NHL Draft Eligible)
Villeneuve showcased his offensive talent last season, recording 62 points in 61 games and a plus-14 rating. He finished second among QMJHL defensemen in total points and received the Emile Bouchard Trophy as QMJHL Defenseman of the Year. His ability to manage the transition game and produce offensively makes him a top-tier offensive defenseman, but his defensive play has caught the attention of scouts. A first-team QMJHL All-Star and third-team CHL All-Star, Villeneuve will undoubtedly be a key player to watch for the Armada this season, as they are among the favorites for the title.
A spot on Team Canada at the World Juniors in December might be a key motivator for him to begin this 2025-2026 season as well.
Alexis Joseph – F, Saint John Sea Dogs (2027 NHL Draft Eligible)
Selected first overall in the 2025 QMJHL Draft, Alexis Joseph enters the league as one of the most highly touted prospects in recent memory. The Laval-native lit up Quebec’s M18 AAA circuit with the Laval-Montréal Rousseau-Royal, leading the league in scoring and earning top-player honors during his draft year.
Known for his explosive skating, elite puck skills, and sharp hockey IQ, Joseph consistently creates time and space on the ice. He’s dangerous both as a shooter and playmaker, often controlling the pace of play.
At just 15, he’ll face a steep adjustment to the QMJHL, but his poise and talent suggest he’ll be a franchise cornerstone for the Sea Dogs. As a 2027 NHL Draft-eligible player, he’s still years away from hearing his name called, but make no mistake — he’s already on the radar of NHL scouts and could be a centerpiece of Canada’s next generation of hockey talent.
William Lacelle – G, Rimouski Océanic (2026 NHL Draft Eligible)
Lacelle established himself as one of the top young goaltenders in the QMJHL last season, winning the Jacques-Plante Trophy after posting a league-best 2.38 goals-against average in his rookie year. Drafted by Rimouski in the first round of the 2023 QMJHL Draft, the 17-year-old has quickly established himself as a calm, technically sound presence between the pipes. His rebound control and ability to stay composed under pressure earned him the starter’s role and the trust of his coaching staff throughout the season.
A poised goaltender with sharp fundamentals, Lacelle doesn’t rely on flash but instead on smart positioning and efficient movement. He rarely overcommits and reads the play well, especially in traffic or off the rush. As Rimouski eyes a deep playoff push, Lacelle will be central to their ambitions — and with the 2026 NHL Draft approaching, he’ll be one of the most closely watched netminders in Canadian junior hockey this season.
Benjamin Veitch – F, Newfoundland Regiment (2028 NHL Draft Eligible)
A hometown product from St. John’s, Benjamin Veitch enters the QMJHL with the unique opportunity to help lead a brand-new franchise in its inaugural season. Selected 5th overall in the 2025 QMJHL Draft, Veitch is known for his physical edge and ability to drive the net. As he’s already turning heads nationally, his blend of size, skill, and hockey sense could quickly make him the face of the Newfoundland Regiment
This summer, Veitch was invited to Hockey Canada’s U17 development camp, where he impressed with a four-point performance in intra-squad action — a strong early sign of his offensive upside. While still just 15, his mature game and natural leadership qualities suggest he’ll play a major role in shaping both the team’s on-ice identity and its culture moving forward. As one of the QMJHL’s most intriguing young talents, Veitch is a name fans will want to remember as he begins his major junior career.
Liam Kilfoil – F, Halifax Mooseheads (2026 NHL Draft Eligible)
A smart, competitive forward, Liam Kilfoil blends offensive creativity with strong two-way instincts. He posted 46 points (21 goals) in 62 games last season, showing his ability to contribute while playing a responsible, high-motor game. Kilfoil excels at supporting the rush, making quick decisions, and winning puck battles — traits that make him valuable in all situations.
As Halifax leans on a young core this year, Kilfoil is expected to take on a bigger role. With NHL scouts watching ahead of the 2026 Draft, he’s poised to emerge as one of the Mooseheads’ most important players.
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