Caleb Desnoyers is poised to lead the Moncton Wildcats in their quest for a QMJHL title repeat. With a rich family history in the franchise, Desnoyers has a strong connection to the team. His uncle, Simon Laliberté, captained the Wildcats from 1996 to 2000, and his brother, Elliot, was selected 18th overall in the 2018 QMJHL Draft.
Caleb Desnoyers: A Key Player for Moncton
Selected as the first overall pick in the 2023 QMJHL Draft, Desnoyers quickly became a cornerstone player for the Wildcats. The 6-foot-2 center stood out in the 2024-25 season, racking up 35 goals and 84 points. He earned the Mike Bossy Trophy as the league’s top prospect and contributed significantly in the playoffs, recording nine goals and 30 points. His performance helped the Wildcats secure the Gilles-Courteau Trophy, with Desnoyers also winning the Guy Lafleur Trophy as playoff MVP.
Returning as Captain
After being drafted fourth overall by the Utah Mammoth in the 2025 NHL Draft, Desnoyers chose to return to Moncton. He was named team captain, a decision that underscores his commitment to the organization. “Taking the captaincy was one of the reasons I wanted to come back and get that experience with Moncton,” he stated. Despite starting the season on the injured list, Desnoyers still managed 22 goals and 78 points over 45 games.
Wildcats’ Dominance
This season, the Wildcats finished with the best record in the QMJHL for the second year in a row. They dominated the early playoff rounds, sweeping the Saint John Sea Dogs and the Val-d’Or Foreurs. However, they faced a challenging semifinal series against the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, featuring top scorer Justin Carbonneau.
- Game 1: Lost in quadruple overtime (3-2).
- Game 6: Missed chance to eliminate Armada, losing 3-2.
- Game 7: Secured the series with a 6-2 victory, Desnoyers earned 1 goal and 2 assists.
Desnoyers believes that overcoming adversity in these high-stakes games will benefit the team moving forward. “The only thing you can’t buy in the hockey world is experience,” he remarked.
Facing the Chicoutimi Saguenéens
The Wildcats are now contending against the Chicoutimi Saguenéens in the QMJHL final. The Saguenéens, making their first final appearance since 1997, are looking for their first championship in 32 years. Both teams split the first four games, with Moncton facing elimination after a tense Game 5 loss, where they squandered a 4-0 lead to lose 7-6.
Experience as an Asset
As the series progresses, Desnoyers emphasizes the importance of experience. “I just have to stay cool and know what to say as a leader,” he stated. With their season on the line, Desnoyers and the Wildcats will rely on their collective experience and composure in the pivotal Game 6.
Future Prospects
These playoffs may mark Desnoyers’ final moments in the QMJHL, as he has opportunities with the Mammoth organization. Reflecting on his time in Moncton, he expresses pride in the team’s growth and his personal development. “I take pride in wearing that logo,” he shared. Desnoyers acknowledges that the team’s values have significantly shaped him as both a player and an individual.
As they battle for another championship, Caleb Desnoyers and the Moncton Wildcats aim to solidify their legacy in the QMJHL.
