HabsWorld.net --
Habsworld.net has named Maxime Lapierre the April Prospect of the month for his impressive play in the QMJHL playoffs. Playing in only his second season in the QMJHL, Lapierre was able to lead his team in goal scoring as he helped his team win games at the most important time of the year. Taken the recent 2003 entry draft, Maxime was selected in the second round, 61st overall thanks in part to the Philadelphia Flyers, who traded the 61st overall pick to obtain Eric Chouinard. Although Lapierre was ranked in the top 50 by CSB, the Canadiens were able to grab him after picking teammate Cory Urquhart at 40th overall. Rarely if ever do you see teammates picked in the same round let alone drafted by the same team, but in the case of Lapierre and Urquhart, Canadiens management must have seen something they liked in both players when they were scouting fellow Rocket teammate Michael Lambert a 2002 draft pick.
Not known for his goal scoring abilities, Lapierre is considered one of the hardest working players in the QMJHL, as he brings it all every shift and plays a very intense in your face kind of game. What’s impressive for Lapierre is that he is playing in his second year in the Q, where in last years playoffs he recorded only one goal in the seven playoff games. But this year he stepped up his offensive game as he recorded seven goals in just eleven playoff games and a total of nine points. Lapierre’s success could have something to do with his coach having faith in his abilities, as the ex-Hab coach put Lapierre on the top line with Michael Lambert and Cory Urquhart at different parts of the season. The results brought more offensive production for Lapierre, even though he played in five less games then last season, he was able to record 17 more points which is impressive considering he spent 138 minutes in the penalty box, more then double his 60 minutes from last season. Next year should bring even better results for the young Lapierre who recently turned 19 years old. While the Rocket did end up losing to the Moncton Wildcats in the second round, the Rocket did make it an interesting series thanks in part to the play of Lapierre.
Also of note should be Cory Urquhart who after a slow start was able to lead the Rocket in scoring in the playoff with 13 points. Right there with him was Michael Lambert who put up the exact same numbers as Urquhart, and the trio were able to rack up an impressive 19 goals between them.
