Did you know that only 11% of NHL draft picks go on to play 200 or more games? For Riley Kidney, the journey from being a second-round pick to a professional player has been a testament to resilience and adaptability. Drafted 63rd overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2021, he has faced both triumphs and challenges in his young career.
During his junior hockey days, Kidney dominated the QMJHL, scoring over 100 points in a single season. However, transitioning to the AHL with the Laval Rocket has tested his ability to adapt. The 2023-24 season saw him play 65 games, contributing 20 points, while the 2024-25 season brought its own set of hurdles with 16 points in 56 games.
Despite these challenges, Kidney’s story is one of perseverance. His growth mindset and determination to improve make him a player to watch. From his draft day to his current developmental crossroads, his journey highlights the importance of resilience in professional sports.
Introduction to Riley Kidney’s Hockey Journey
From the small towns of Nova Scotia to the bright lights of professional hockey, his journey has been remarkable. Starting with the ACA Rangers and March and Mill Co Hunters, he honed his skills in the U15-18 leagues. His early development laid the foundation for a promising career.
Early Career and Draft Selection
The 2021-22 season was a turning point. Playing in the QMJHL, he scored an impressive 100 points, showcasing his playmaking dominance. This breakout performance caught the attention of scouts, leading to his selection in the 2021 NHL draft.
During the 2022 QMJHL playoffs, he continued to shine. With Gatineau, he tallied 22 points in 13 games, proving his ability to perform under pressure. His dual-threat capability, with 34 goals and 86 assists in his final junior year, highlighted his versatility.
Key Attributes and Playing Style
Known as a crafty forward, he possesses high-end puck skills and strong spatial awareness. His creativity on the ice makes him a reliable distributor, setting up plays with precision. Despite limited ice time at the 2022 World Juniors with Team Canada, he gained valuable experience.
Physically, he has evolved from a junior player to a professional athlete. Standing at 5’11” and weighing 190lbs, his frame has adapted to the demands of higher-level hockey. This growth has been crucial in his transition to the AHL.
Riley Kidney’s Career Progression
The path from junior hockey to professional leagues is rarely linear, but it’s a journey filled with growth and learning. For one young player, the transition from the QMJHL to the AHL has been a testament to adaptability and perseverance.
Performance in the QMJHL
During his time in the QMJHL, he showcased remarkable consistency and skill. Over three seasons, he played 229 games, scoring 76 goals and adding 204 assists for a total of 280 points. His rookie season saw him tally 5 goals and 33 points, but he quickly grew into a dominant force.
By his final junior year, he recorded back-to-back 100-point campaigns, proving his ability to lead on the ice. A mid-season trade to the Gatineau Olympiques further highlighted his adaptability, as he posted 65 points in just 29 games. His performance in the playoffs was equally impressive, with 22 points in 13 games during the 2022 postseason.
Transition to the AHL with Laval Rocket
Moving to the AHL with the Laval Rocket marked a new chapter in his career. The increased physicality and defensive responsibilities of professional hockey required significant adjustments. In his rookie season, he played 65 games, contributing 7 goals and 13 assists for a total of 20 points.
Despite limited power play time and fluctuating linemate chemistry, he showed flashes of his potential. His scoring rate dropped from 1.45 points per game in the QMJHL to 0.31 points per game in the AHL, reflecting the challenges of transitioning to a higher level of competition.
| League | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| QMJHL (2020-23) | 229 | 76 | 204 | 280 |
| AHL (2023-24) | 65 | 7 | 13 | 20 |
Challenges and Setbacks
Every athlete faces hurdles, but how they respond defines their future. For one young player, the transition to professional hockey has been a test of resilience. While early success in junior leagues set high expectations, adapting to the AHL has proven more challenging.
Recent Struggles with Laval Rocket
The 2024-25 season has been tough. In 24 games, he recorded just 1 goal and 6 assists, totaling 7 points. This scoring drought contrasts sharply with his rookie campaign, where he contributed 20 points in 65 games. Coach Pascal Vincent’s reduced trust became evident, as he was benched for over six consecutive games by December 2024.
Prolonged benchings can erode confidence, making it harder to regain form. For a player used to consistent ice time, this adjustment has been mentally taxing. The Laval Rocket’s focus on immediate results adds pressure, leaving less room for developmental patience.
Potential Move to Trois-Rivières
A potential assignment to the ECHL’s Trois-Rivières Lions could offer a fresh start. Top-line minutes and increased responsibility might help rebuild confidence. Historical examples like Mason Marchment, Michael Bunting, and Ben Chiarot show that ECHL detours can lead to NHL success.
For the organization, this decision balances development timelines with AHL win-now pressures. While a demotion may seem like a setback, it could provide the tools needed for long-term growth.
| Season | League | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | AHL | 65 | 7 | 13 | 20 |
| 2024-25 | AHL | 24 | 1 | 6 | 7 |
Conclusion: Riley Kidney’s Growth Mindset
The journey of a young athlete is often paved with challenges, but it’s the ability to adapt that defines success. For this player, the 2024-25 season has been a test of resilience. Despite setbacks, his growth mindset remains a cornerstone of his development.
At 22 years old, he still has ample time to refine his skills. The typical NHL debut age for a forward falls between 23-25, offering a clear developmental runway. The upcoming offseason will be crucial for strength training and skill refinement, setting the stage for a potential breakthrough.
With his RFA status extending through 2025-26, the next year is pivotal. The Montreal Canadiens’ philosophy of patience with high-ceiling playmakers aligns with his potential. Current adversity, while challenging, could forge a stronger professional mindset, preparing him for future success.