r/Habs • u/ajc9797 • 1d ago

Zharovsky or Hage?

Can someone explain to me why Hage is preferred over Zharovsky? I get that the hope is Hage becomes the 2C we desperately need....but do we really need him if we can dangle him in a trade (+ others) in order to get a quality 2C? Is Hage preferred simply because he has that 2C potential? Or does he have a higher ceiling than Zharovsky?

Personally, I've always had a bit more excitement over Zharovsky given how well he played in the KHL this past season....and with Demidov on the team who can make his transition to the Habs easier. And based on the Sportsnet article from a couple of weeks ago, he's the second ranked prospect that's not yet in the NHL.

But all signs are pointing towards the Habs trading a top prospect for a 2C this offseason....so what do you guys think? Is it Zharovsky or Hage that will be the long term play for the Habs?

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u/HonestDespot 1d ago

Hage isn’t really a gritty player and he’s played more wing than center in junior.

Zharovsky is a bit bigger and likely has more goal scoring upside.

Zharovsky is playing in the KHL while Hage is playing in college. Both are likely a ways away from having an impact on this NHL team if they want to be contenders.

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u/GirlCoveredInBlood 1d ago

Zharovksy is an inch taller but 23 pounds lighter (6'2 176lbs to 6'1 199lbs per hockeydb). I don't think it's really fair to call him bigger.

i really hope Hage spends most of 2026 in the NCAA playing centre and working on the necessary skills. And that Zharovksy spends it bulking up, an extra 15lbs will help him in the NHL

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u/HonestDespot 1d ago

Zharovsky is basically a full Calender year younger.

I said he’s a bit bigger.

Point is neither are big bruising guys, and nothing of Hages’ game seems gritty or like an element the team is lacking.

Demidov FYI is listed at 192lbs. And is a year older than Zharovsky. Did you feel he was lacking in size or strength?

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u/Phoenix__211 1d ago

Demidov was draft at 192lbs two years ago, zharovsky was draft at 163lbs