Gauthier nets Michael-Bossy Trophy as QMJHL’s top draft prospect
Ethan Gauthier of the Sherbrooke Phoenix is the top draft prospect in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.
Gauthier, No. 23 in FCHockey’s Midterm ranking for the 2023 NHL Draft, has been named recipient of the Michael-Bossy Trophy, which is awarded annually to the QMJHL’s top prospect for the upcoming draft.
“He owns an appealing mix of goal-scoring instincts, compete and two-way prowess, which makes him the most coveted prospect from the QMJHL this year,” FCHockey scout Joey Fortin Boulay said. “He’s a reliable winger that can make a difference on any given line from top to bottom.”
The 17-year-old recorded 69 points (30 goals, 39 assists) in 66 regular-season games. He scored five game-winning goals and seven power play goals while also finishing the season with an impressive +29 plus/minus ratio, and helped the Phoenix to a first-place finish in the Western Conference.
The trophy is named after former QMJHL star and Hockey Hall of Famer Michael Bossy, who was voted as the sixth greatest player in QMJHL history during the league’s 50th anniversary celebrations. Recent past recipients include Nathan Gaucher, Zachary Bolduc, Alexis Lafreniere, and Raphael Lavoie.
Mathieu Cataford of the Halifax Mooseheads and Etienne Morin of the Moncton Wildcats were the other nominees for this year’s award.