Canadiens Sign Casey Mittelstadt's Brother to Entry-Level Contract

Luke Mittelstadt, a defenseman from the University of Minnesota, joins the Canadiens' AHL affiliate Laval Rocket.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 6:18pm

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The Montreal Canadiens have signed Luke Mittelstadt, the younger brother of Boston Bruins forward Casey Mittelstadt, to a two-year entry-level contract. Mittelstadt, a 23-year-old defenseman, will join the Canadiens' American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Laval Rocket, for the remainder of the 2025-26 season after completing his NCAA career with the University of Minnesota Gophers.

Why it matters

The Canadiens are deep on defense and are adding another potential future player to their prospect pool. Mittelstadt, who was originally selected by the Habs in the seventh round of the 2023 NHL Draft, will have the opportunity to turn pro and prove himself at the AHL level as the Rocket look to contend for the Calder Cup.

The details

Mittelstadt, who stands 5-foot-11, is an undersized but smart two-way defender. He appeared in 36 games with the Gophers this year, chipping in 21 points and leading all team defensemen in goals, assists and points. Over his four-year NCAA career, he recorded 11 goals and 80 points in 152 games, while also managing a +46 rating. Mittelstadt played for the United States at the 2023 World Junior Hockey Championship, helping his country win bronze.

  • Mittelstadt will join the Laval Rocket for the remainder of the 2025-26 season.
  • Following the 2027-28 campaign, Mittelstadt will be a restricted free agent.

The players

Luke Mittelstadt

A 23-year-old defenseman who recently signed a two-year, entry-level contract with the Montreal Canadiens after completing his NCAA career with the University of Minnesota Gophers.

Casey Mittelstadt

Luke's older brother, who plays forward for the Boston Bruins.

Kent Hughes

The general manager of the Montreal Canadiens, who announced the signing of Luke Mittelstadt.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This signing represents the Canadiens' continued commitment to building depth on the blue line, as they add another prospect with potential to their system. Mittelstadt will have the opportunity to develop at the AHL level and potentially earn a call-up to the NHL in the future.