These teens have been friends forever. Now they’ll try to make the Mooseheads together

Malik L’Italien and Jayden Napon, two talented young hockey players from Montreal, have been best friends since they were kids. Recently, their bond was strengthened even further when they both ended up getting drafted by the Halifax Mooseheads in the QMJHL draft.

The story of their draft day experience is a heartwarming tale of friendship and shared dreams. After L’Italien was picked third overall by the Mooseheads, he was discussing with forward Shawn Carrier about how much he would love for the team to draft his best friend, Napon. As fate would have it, Napon’s name was called out over the loudspeakers shortly after, much to L’Italien’s delight.

The two teenagers, who have known each other for over a decade and share the same birthday, have a special connection both on and off the ice. They have played together on various teams over the years, developing a strong chemistry that is evident in their gameplay.

Their friendship extends beyond the rink, with memories of intense games of “mini sticks” and shared birthday celebrations. Despite playing for different teams last season, with Napon on the Laval-Montréal Rousseau-Royal and L’Italien at Stanstead College, they have always supported each other in their hockey pursuits.

Napon, a skilled left-winger known for his scoring ability, and L’Italien, an offensive defenceman with a knack for moving the puck, are excited at the prospect of reuniting on the Mooseheads. They believe that their familiarity with each other’s playing styles will give them an edge on the ice.

While L’Italien is confident of making the team, Napon faces a tougher challenge as a fifth-round draft pick. However, the opportunity to play alongside his best friend once again is a source of motivation for him. The prospect of having L’Italien by his side in a new environment far from home provides Napon with a sense of comfort and support.

As they prepare for the upcoming season and the chance to showcase their skills together on the Mooseheads, L’Italien and Napon are determined to make the most of this opportunity. Their friendship and shared love for the game of hockey continue to be the driving force behind their pursuit of success on the ice.