Ramage on Harvey-Pinard: 'I just love this young guy'

MONTREAL - Director of player development, Rob Ramage, spoke with reporters via Zoom on Wednesday in conjunction with the first day of Rookie Camp at the Bell Sports Complex.

Ramage answered a variety of questions on some of the Canadiens' top prospects in attendance.
Here are a few highlights from his press conference:
Ramage on defenseman Mattias Norlinder possibly earning a roster spot with the Canadiens:
You never know what's going to transpire here between now and October. But, he's progressing. I saw him two years ago in Sweden when he was playing in the Allsvenskan. It's funny. I saw him yesterday for the first time since we got together and had dinner there, and I didn't recognize him. These guys change. They're at an age where their appearance has changed, their size changes. We'll see how he develops. He's definitely a suspect.

Ramage on the future of defenseman Kaiden Guhle:
Last year, he was named captain in Prince Albert as an 18-year-old. That shows his leadership and his maturity as a young guy. Watching him in the World Juniors, he was solid. He carries himself like a pro. His brother's a pro hockey player, an NHL hockey player, so he's been around it. There's an air of confidence, not cockiness. He's becoming a professional before he's a professional. I think we've got a really solid one there.
Ramage on the future of forward Jan Mysak:
There are two great options for him. If he goes back to Junior, he can play in the World Juniors. He'll also have a lot of ice time with Hamilton. If he stays here and plays with Laval, he starts the development process. That's something that's being discussed. I don't think the decision has been made so far. We'll let him get on the ice and see how things go.

Ramage on the steady improvement of forward Jesse Ylönen:
He had a great initial season in North America last year. That journey and progression continues. I think the expectations are that he'll play games in Montreal this year. We'll see how camp goes and how he does as far as that's concerned.
Ramage on his impressions of forward Rafaël Harvey-Pinard:
I love him. I saw him at breakfast. He had a great summer working out. He said: 'You see, I'm a little bit bigger.' I said: 'Your biggest asset is your heart.' I just love this young guy. I certainly wouldn't bet against him. He had a great first pro season last year, so he's certainly got a development coach fighting in his corner.