Caleb Desnoyers inks NHL deal after record-breaking QMJHL season
Caleb Desnoyers has signed his entry-level contract with the Utah Mammoth after a standout season in the QMJHL. The 2025 fourth-overall draft pick put pen to paper on 21 March 2026, capping off a campaign where he helped the Moncton Wildcats clinch back-to-back regular season titles. His performance earned praise from the Mammoth's general manager and a spot on Team Canada's World Juniors roster.
Desnoyers sealed his contract just hours after scoring his 22nd goal of the season in Moncton's final regular-season game. Over 45 matches, he tallied 78 points—22 goals and 56 assists—placing him among the league's top scorers. His 1.73 points per game ranked second in the QMJHL, while his assist totals tied for fourth overall, with five coming on the power play.
The Wildcats dominated the regular season, winning the Jean-Rougeau Trophy as the league's top team. Desnoyers played a key role in their success, outpacing many rivals, including Gabe Smith (77 points in 34 games) and Niko Tournas (74 points in 43 games). His efforts also earned him a place on Canada's World Juniors squad, further highlighting his rising profile. Despite his rapid progress, the Mammoth organisation is taking a measured approach. Desnoyers will remain with Moncton for the QMJHL playoffs, where the team will chase the Memorial Cup. Only after that will he shift focus to the Mammoth's training camp in September. Throughout the season, Desnoyers worked closely with Moncton's training staff and Utah's development coach to refine his game. Strength, speed, and professional-level details have been his main priorities. The off-season will see him double down on these areas as he prepares to compete for a roster spot.
Desnoyers now turns his attention to the playoffs, aiming to lift the Memorial Cup with the Wildcats. After that, his focus will shift to Utah's training camp, where he'll push for a place on the Mammoth's lineup. The organisation's patience suggests they see long-term potential in the young forward's development.
