One prospect taking major step in Belleville this season

Xavier Bourgault | Marissa Baecker/GettyImagesAt the 2021 NHL Draft, Xavier Bourgault was taken with the 22nd overall pick by the Edmonton Oilers. Since being drafted, Bourgault hasn't played an NHL game. Wyatt Johnston being drafted the very next pick after Bourgault has made the pick look rough in hindsight.

In July 2024, the Ottawa Senators acquired Bourgault in a trade with the Oilers. However, Bourgault spent the entire 2024-25 season in the AHL with the Belleville Senators.

Bourgault had a disappointing first season in Belleville, but was re-signed to a one-year contract this past offseason. With a second season ahead of him in Belleville, Bourgault is off to the start he needed this…