The Montreal Canadiens had a rather big battle in training camp between three young defenders for a single Top 6 spot. Nathan Beaulieu beat out Greg Pateryn and Jarred Tinordi for that spot and spent the season growing from a bottom pairing defender to a legitimate Top 4. The caveat is that he still has room to grow and could eventually become a top pairing player.
Nathan Beaulieu – Defenceman
Games Played: 64
Goals-Assists-Points: 2-17-19
Beaulieu’s season with the Canadiens was one of growth and realizing previously untapped potential.