Anaheim Ducks Prospect Highlight: Maxim Massé

ANAHEIM, Calif. -- The Anaheim Ducks continue to invest in talent from the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), with forward Maxim Massé as one of the latest additions. Massé was selected 66th overall in the third round of the 2024 NHL Draft from the Chicoutimi Saguenéens.

The 18-year-old winger is the second Ducks prospect in three years to win the Mike Bossy Award for the QMJHL’s Best Professional Prospect, joining current AHL San Diego Gulls forward Nathan Gaucher.

Austin Gibbons of the The Sporting Tribune recently discussed Massé about his early hockey career, playing style, Ducks development camp and more.

The Sporting Tribune: Where were you born, and how did growing up there shape your hockey career?

Massé: I was born in Rimouski, and I played my minor hockey there until U18 Triple-A. After that, I moved to a smaller town nearby for a year, which went really well and led to me being drafted by Chicoutimi. I’m now in my third year with the Saguenéens.

TST: Was hockey a big part of your family growing up? Did anyone inspire you to pursue the game?

Massé: My grandpa played junior major hockey, and my dad played a bit in the QMJHL. They were both huge inspirations. They supported me from the start, even building a backyard rink for me to practice on.

TST: You were selected in the third round of the 2024 NHL Draft by the Ducks. What was that day like for you?

Massé: It was an incredible experience. I had about 50 people there supporting me. There was some waiting, which was tough, but hearing my name called made it all worth it. Being drafted by the Ducks is something I’ll never forget.

TST: How would you describe your game? What are your biggest strengths as a player?

Massé: I see myself as a two-way forward who’s dangerous off the rush. I can score with my shot, get in front of the net for those gritty goals, or create plays in the offensive zone.

TST: What areas of your game are you currently working to improve?

Massé: Skating and physicality are the main focuses. I’ve made progress over the last couple of years, but there’s still room to grow to reach the next level.

TST: You’ve been described as having a net-front presence and a physical style. How have you developed that part of your game?

Massé: Physicality is still something I’m working to improve, along with my skating. It’s a focus for me, especially with guidance from the Ducks staff. Over the years, I’ve made progress by focusing on positioning and extra effort in those areas, but I know there’s still work to do to take it to the next level.

TST: Do you see yourself as a player who can frustrate opponents or get under their skin?

Massé: Yes, I think so. I enjoy talking on the ice and trying to get in the heads of opponents. Physicality plays a role too, even though it’s something I’m still developing. But through things like chirping or just staying involved, I feel I can be a bit of a pest out there.

TST: What was your first impression of the Ducks organization during development and rookie camp?

Massé: I was impressed by the resources and staff dedicated to helping us improve. They provided daily gym sessions, skill development, and even private practices to work on specific areas like shooting and skating.

TST: What was your takeaway from the rookie games? Were you satisfied with your performance?

Massé: I thought the games went pretty well. It was an adjustment because it felt like my first taste of pro-level hockey, even if it wasn’t a full NHL game. Each game got better, and by the end, I felt more comfortable. 

TST: What feedback did the Ducks give you to focus on this season?

Massé: Skating was the main point. They emphasized it as an area to refine, and I feel I’ve already made strides in that regard.

TST: You’ve played three seasons in the QMJHL with Chicoutimi. What has that experience been like, and how has it prepared you for the next level?

Massé: It’s been a great experience. The league is very competitive, and I’ve learned a lot about playing a two-way game, which will be critical as I transition to professional hockey.

TST: Do you model your game after any NHL players?

Massé: Alex Tuch is a player I look up to. He’s a big forward who can shoot, play physically, and be effective around the net—similar to how I play.

TST: What’s your routine like on game days?

Massé: I keep it simple. I usually go to Subway for a teriyaki chicken sandwich, grab a nap, and then head to the rink. I tape my stick and hang out with my teammates. It’s nothing fancy, but it helps me stay consistent.

TST: What type of music do you enjoy, and do you have a favorite artist?

Massé: I’d say I listen to a lot of pop music—just upbeat, feel-good vibes. I don’t have one specific favorite artist, but anything with a good rhythm works for me.

Austin Gibbons serves as the Anaheim Ducks prospect analyst for The Sporting Tribune. Look for more Ducks prospect analysis in his series, "Ducks Prospect Highlights" through the 2024-25 season.