Samuel Meloche (G, L, 6’2″, 194, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, 07/22/2007)
Samuel Meloche is a 6’2”, 190-pound left-catching goaltender for Rouyn-Noranda in the QMJHL. In 51 appearances during the 2024–25 season, Meloche posted a 2.90 GAA, .900 SV%, 5 shutouts, and a 30-14-6 record. He averaged 12 scoring-area saves per game with an .840 SV% on those high-danger shots and saved an average of 3.1 goals above expected per game. His frame is slightly below the NHL average for goaltenders, but he brings above-average athleticism and a competitive crease presence that has made him one of the most relied-upon starters in the QMJHL this season.
Statistical Profile
Meloche’s workload was consistently high, handling top-six volume for one of the stronger QMJHL clubs. His five shutouts and 30-win campaign speak to his ability to lock down games. While his overall .900 SV% is average by draft-eligible standards, his .840 SV% against scoring-area chances and his 3.1 saves above expected per game are noteworthy. He is a goaltender who regularly absorbs difficult chances and maintains composure through traffic and high-stress sequences. His rebound control is effective low, but his blocker-side exposure on lateral plays is a repeat vulnerability.
Reasons to Draft
Meloche is a technically sound, athletic goaltender who stays competitive on second and third opportunities. His movement is clean in the crease, with good east-west coverage and controlled pad recovery mechanics. He tracks the puck well through screens and consistently squares up to the initial shot. His ability to maintain net coverage while staying low gives him a solid base to limit rebound chaos. Meloche has also shown the mental resilience to bounce back from soft goals or poor sequences, which is a necessary trait in long-term development. He’s not afraid to handle the puck outside his crease and looks to initiate transition when controlled, which is becoming increasingly valuable in modern pro systems.
Reasons Not to Draft
Meloche’s blocker side, particularly on plays involving lateral puck movement, is a concern. He tends to over-slide and open up space high short side when reacting to cross-slot passes. Additionally, while technically capable, his glove usage is passive—more of a blocker and trapper than a true catcher—which limits his ability to cleanly kill plays with his hands. Though listed at 6’2″, his stature does not afford the same net-sealing advantage that NHL teams now prefer in goaltenders closer to 6’4″. His puck-handling instincts can also be risky when attempting long clears or rim passes, occasionally gifting pucks back to forechecking pressure.
Projection
Meloche projects as a potential No. 2 or tandem goaltender at the professional level with the upside to push for more depending on how well he develops his blocker positioning and glove control. His game management, ability to handle pressure, and consistent effort level offer a strong foundation for an organization willing to invest in long-term goaltending development.
Draft Recommendation
7th round / Priority Free Agent Watch
Meloche is draftable in the 7th round as a development project. He has the athletic tools and in-game experience against quality shooters to justify investment. His ability to keep games close with timely saves and strong tracking makes him an appealing option for organizations with structured goalie development programs. Target in the 7th round.
Photo credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images