Did you know that only 5% of players drafted in the 5th round of the NHL Entry Draft go on to sign professional contracts? Jared Davidson is one of those rare talents. Selected 130th overall in 2022, this rising Montreal Canadiens prospect has quickly made a name for himself. With a $862,500 cap hit through the 2025-26 season, he’s proving to be a valuable asset for the organization.
Davidson’s journey began with the Seattle Thunderbirds, where he played a pivotal role in their WHL championship win during the 2022-23 season. His adaptability and scoring prowess were on full display, catching the attention of scouts and fans alike. Transitioning to the AHL, he continued to shine with the Laval Rocket, posting 45 points in 69 games during the 2024-25 season.
Now, as he prepares for the next chapter of his career, Davidson’s professional growth is a testament to his hard work and determination. This article dives into his developmental milestones, current contract status, and what the future holds for this promising player.
Who Is Jared Davidson?
Growing up in Edmonton, this young player showed early promise on the ice. Born on July 7, 2002, he quickly became a standout in Alberta’s competitive hockey scene. His journey began with the SSAC Lions U15 AAA, where he scored 17 points in 31 games, showcasing his potential as a forward.
Early Life and Background
From his roots in Edmonton, he progressed through Alberta’s AEHL leagues, honing his skills at every level. His time with the SSAC Lions and later the Bulldogs helped shape his game, emphasizing teamwork and adaptability. These formative years laid the groundwork for his future success.
Draft and NHL Entry
His breakout season came in 2021-22 with the Seattle Thunderbirds, where he tallied 89 points (42 goals, 47 assists). This performance caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his selection by the Montreal Canadiens in the 5th round of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. Montreal’s strategic investment in this player highlights their belief in his potential.
According to DobberProspects, his hockey IQ is a standout strength, though his skating has room for improvement. This assessment underscores his development path, balancing natural talent with areas for growth. As he continues to refine his game, his journey remains one to watch.
Jared Davidson’s Journey with the Seattle Thunderbirds
From a rookie with modest stats to a WHL champion, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. The Seattle Thunderbirds played a crucial role in his development, transforming him into a standout player. This section explores his growth during his time in the WHL, from his early years to his championship success.
2018-2020: The Early Years
His WHL career began in the 2018-19 season, where he scored just 4 points in 48 games. Despite the slow start, he showed flashes of potential. The Thunderbirds’ coaching staff worked closely with him, focusing on improving his two-way game and hockey IQ.
By the 2019-20 season, he began to find his footing. His role expanded, and he started contributing more consistently. This period laid the foundation for his future success, teaching him the importance of perseverance and hard work.
2021-2023: Breakout Seasons and Championship Success
The 2021-22 season marked a turning point. He exploded onto the scene, tallying 89 points (42 goals, 47 assists) and becoming a WHL scoring title contender. His 1.39 points per game average showcased his offensive prowess and ability to dominate games.
In the 2022-23 season, he led the Thunderbirds to a WHL championship, recording 23 points in the playoffs. His performance in the Memorial Cup, where he scored 6 points in 5 games, further solidified his reputation as a clutch player.
“He’s a leader on and off the ice, and his work ethic is unmatched,” said a Thunderbirds coach.
Over his WHL career, he played 254 games, amassing 173 points. His time with the Thunderbirds not only honed his skills but also prepared him for the challenges of professional hockey.
Transitioning to Professional Hockey: Jared Davidson and the Laval Rocket
Making the leap from junior hockey to the AHL is no small feat, but this player has shown he’s up for the challenge. His time with the Laval Rocket has been a critical chapter in his development, showcasing his ability to adapt and thrive in a more competitive environment.
2023-2024: Adapting to the AHL
The 2023-24 season was a period of adjustment. In his rookie year, he recorded 16 points in 38 games, along with a +4 rating. While the numbers were modest, they reflected his growing comfort with the AHL’s pace and physicality. This season laid the groundwork for his future success, teaching him the nuances of professional hockey.
2024-2025: Establishing Himself as a Key Player
The following season marked a significant leap forward. He became a cornerstone of the Laval Rocket’s offense, tallying 24 goals and 21 assists in 69 games. His 45-point campaign made him the team’s third-leading scorer, a testament to his improved consistency and confidence.
His faceoff percentage also saw a notable jump, reaching 52.3% in 2024-25. Additionally, he embraced a more physical style of play, recording 48 penalty minutes during the regular season. This newfound edge added another dimension to his game, making him a more versatile player.
In the playoffs, he continued to shine, contributing 20 penalty minutes in 12 games. His ability to perform under pressure solidified his reputation as a clutch performer. According to DobberProspects, his AHL success has updated his projection, highlighting his potential to become a reliable NHL contributor.
With 107 AHL games and 61 points to his name, he has proven he belongs in the professional ranks. His journey with the Laval Rocket is a testament to his hard work, adaptability, and unwavering determination.
Conclusion: Jared Davidson’s Future in Hockey
The future looks bright for this rising hockey star as he continues to climb the ranks. With his impressive AHL performance, he’s proven he can handle the demands of professional hockey. His 45-point campaign with the Laval Rocket highlights his potential to contribute at the NHL level.
Comparable to players like Jake Evans, he could carve out a role as a reliable bottom-six forward for the Montreal Canadiens. His faceoff skills and physical play add value, though areas like skating acceleration still need refinement.
As he approaches RFA status in 2026, his development trajectory suggests a promising NHL career. The 2025 training camp will be a critical opportunity to showcase his readiness. Fans and scouts alike will be watching closely as this Seattle Thunderbirds alum takes the next step in his journey.