‘Dream come true’ for Vermilion’s Baddock who plays first NHL game

Brandon Baddock got the opportunity he’s been working toward for a lifetime.

The professional hockey player from Vermilion made his NHL debut with the Montreal Canadiens against the Carolina Hurricanes on Thursday night.  

Baddock was originally selected in the 6th round, 161st overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft after playing his junior hockey with the Edmonton Oil Kings, where he won the Memorial Cup in 2013-14 and in his final season was named captain.

He was told for sure that he’d be making his debut just 15 minutes after warmup.

“Just a dream come true,” said Baddock during the post-game press conference. “You work so hard to get here, and I’ve waited a long time for the opportunity, so for it to finally come, it’s just like I said, a dream come true. You just try to work every shift and cherish the moment.”

Called up with several Habs players in COVID protocols, Baddock himself was added to the list and is currently unable to rejoin the Montreal lineup.

Baddock played eight minutes and 24 seconds over 13 shifts. Currently this season with the Laval Rocket of the AHL, Baddock has two goals and four assists in 23 games.