When the Canadiens selected Filip Mesar with their second first-round pick in 2022, they promptly assigned him to play in the OHL with the Kitchener Rangers.
His first season was strong, tallying 51 points in 52 games. He improved slightly in 2023-24, scoring 52 points in 45 games, but it wasn’t a significant leap.
In June, he explained in an interview with a Slovak media outlet that he felt his teammates were sometimes not on the same level as him, which could have contributed to his challenging season.
This gave the impression that he was a player who only thought of himself and was quick to blame his teammates for his own performance.
However, Mesar recently attempted to clear the air in an interview with Slovak journalist Tomas Prokop of Dennik Sports.
In this interview, Mesar clarified that those who know him are aware he’s not a hypocritical player. He defended himself by saying he’s one of the first to help his younger teammates when they need assistance.
Mesar mentioned that he understands what it’s like to play with older players, having experienced it during his time in Slovakia.
We hope this supportive attitude is what he brings to the Habs’ next training camp. He’ll be one of the youngest, but he must show respect for his teammates, regardless of their age.
Regarding the camp, he admitted in the interview that he was disappointed not to have made the Laval Rocket roster during his last two camps with the Habs.
This season, he should get his first chance with Laval, as it would be surprising if the Habs sent him back to the OHL at age 20.
The Habs’ development team didn’t require him to attend the development camp this season, allowing him to focus on his training over the summer.
We eagerly anticipate seeing Mesar at this year’s Habs training camp.
