At just 18, Justin Carbonneau has become one of the most talked-about names in Canadian junior hockey. With a powerful two-way game, a booming shot, and NHL scouts circling, his future seems all but written. Yet, with the draft approaching, Carbonneau finds himself caught between loyalty to his junior team and enticing offers from top NCAA programs.
Carbonneau weighs NCAA dreams against Junior Hockey bonds
Carbonneau isn’t your typical finesse-forward. Growing up playing both football and hockey, he developed a physical edge that sets him apart on the ice. A former linebacker and running back, his love for contact and aggression now translates into a punishing power-forward style. This past season with Blainville-Boisbriand, he racked up 89 points—including 46 goals—in just 62 games, putting him among the elite scorers in the QMJHL.But Carbonneau’s game isn’t just about brute force. His shot is one of the most dangerous in junior hockey—refined, deceptive, and inspired by NHL stars like Auston Matthews and David Pastrnak. Coaches and scouts alike have praised his ability to change angles, create space, and release the puck before goalies can react. Ranked No. 16 among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, he’s a clear draft-day target.Carbonneau’s next move isn’t so simple. While Boston College and Boston University have come calling, offering top-tier NCAA exposure and development, he’s also tempted to return to Blainville-Boisbriand—his home team—one more year to chase a championship with longtime teammates.“I kind of made my decision a couple of weeks ago, but it’s harder than I thought to leave my teammates, and it’s harder to put myself first in that case,” Carbonneau admitted.That sense of loyalty is admirable but it also raises questions. In a sport that often rewards ruthlessness and ambition, will staying behind slow his momentum? Or could another year in juniors polish his game further and make him even more NHL-ready?Also Read: Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs target Brad Marchand amid Mitch Marner exit buzzFor now, Carbonneau is focused on one thing: progress. “It’s just being better than last year,” he said. “Keep improving my skating, my explosion, my shot, different details in my game.” Justin Carbonneau plays like a pro already. The only question is where that next chapter begins.
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