Top NHL prospect goes on a rampage with incredible Gordie Howe hat trick!

It had been a rough start to the 2026-2027 season for one of the Montreal Canadiens' most closely watched prospects, but on Thursday, Gleb Pugachyov silenced his critics in the most emphatic way possible.

The first-round pick, playing in the MHL, Russia's junior league, put together a Gordie Howe hat trick against Molot Perm, combining a goal, an assist, and a fight in a single explosive outing.

Pugachyov's early-season struggles had become a genuine source of concern for those tracking his development. After posting 24 points in 33 games last season in the same league, the young forward had managed just a single assist through his first seven games this year. Observers following his progress reportedly found it hard to recognize the same player on the ice.

Several factors may have contributed to his sluggish play. Pugachyov reportedly suffered a concussion early in the campaign, which could have lingered and affected his performance over multiple weeks. Some analysts also suggested the forward appeared frustrated at not being promoted to the KHL, Russia's top professional league, and that his lack of engagement on the ice reflected that disappointment. None of those explanations fully accounted for the dramatic drop-off, however.

Thursday's performance against Molot Perm, the last-place team in the MHL standings, offered a much-needed spark. Pugachyov opened his account late in the first period, burying his third goal of the season after receiving a sharp pass while stationed in the slot.

In the third period, he showcased the speed that made him a first-round selection. He pounced on a turnover, blew past the opposing defenders, and set up a teammate with a clean look in front of the net for the assist.

Then came the moment that made the rounds on social media. Pugachyov dropped the gloves in the third period and threw punches that looked heavy enough to leave a lasting impression, completing the Gordie Howe hat trick in memorable fashion.

It was exactly the kind of multi-dimensional performance the Canadiens organization needed to see from a player whose development had become a talking point for all the wrong reasons.