Justin Carbonneau Chooses QMJHL Over NCAA, Returns to Blainville-Boisbriand Armada
St. Louis Blues Prospect Justin Carbonneau Stays with QMJHL’s Armada for 2025-26 Season
In a significant decision for his hockey career, St. Louis Blues first-round pick Justin Carbonneau has opted to return to the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) for the 2025-26 season, forgoing a previously speculated move to NCAA hockey with Boston College. The announcement, made by the Armada earlier today, marks a win for the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) amid recent player defections to the NCAA.
Carbonneau, selected 19th overall by the Blues in the 2025 NHL Draft, was a standout in the QMJHL last season, finishing second in league scoring with 46 goals and 43 assists for 89 points in 62 games. The 18-year-old power forward, known for his size (6’2”, 205 lbs), skating, and lethal shot, impressed at the Blues’ prospect camp last week, leaving a strong impression on fans and management alike. His decision to stay in junior hockey keeps open the possibility of attending the Blues’ training camp, with a chance to compete for an NHL roster spot, though he remains unsigned to an entry-level contract.
This move comes at a time when the CHL has seen an exodus of talent to the NCAA, with over 150 players from the past season committing to U.S. college programs. Notably, projected 2026 No. 1 NHL Draft pick Gavin McKenna recently chose Penn State over the WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers. Carbonneau’s commitment to the QMJHL is a boost for the league and the Armada, who are projected to be contenders for the QMJHL title and a potential Memorial Cup run.
Pros and Cons of Carbonneau’s Decision to Return to the QMJHL
Pros:
NHL Training Camp Opportunity: By staying in the QMJHL, Carbonneau remains eligible to attend the Blues’ training camp. If he impresses, he could play up to nine NHL games before a decision is made on whether he stays with the Blues or returns to junior. This direct path to professional hockey is not available if he opts for the NCAA.
Development in a Competitive Environment: The Armada are expected to be a top QMJHL team, offering Carbonneau a chance to play significant minutes on a contending squad. This high-pressure environment could refine his leadership and clutch performance, especially in pursuit of a Memorial Cup.
Physical and Skill Development: The QMJHL’s physical style suits Carbonneau’s game as a power forward. Another season in junior allows him to further hone his skating, defensive awareness, and decision-making—areas identified as needing improvement—while maintaining his offensive dominance.
Support for the CHL: Carbonneau’s decision helps bolster the QMJHL and CHL, countering the recent narrative of talent loss to the NCAA. His presence strengthens the league’s reputation and could inspire other prospects to stay in junior hockey.
Familiarity and Comfort: Returning to Blainville-Boisbriand allows Carbonneau to play in a familiar system and environment, potentially accelerating his development compared to adjusting to a new NCAA program.
Cons:
Missed NCAA Exposure: Boston College, a powerhouse in college hockey, would have provided Carbonneau with high-level competition and visibility in the NCAA, which is increasingly seen as a viable path to the NHL. Playing alongside top prospects like James Hagens could have elevated his game and profile.
Educational Opportunity: Choosing the QMJHL over Boston College means forgoing the academic benefits of an NCAA program, which offers a degree and a fallback option if a professional hockey career doesn’t materialize.
Risk of Stagnation: While the QMJHL is competitive, some argue the NCAA offers a more structured environment with older, physically mature players. Staying in junior hockey risks Carbonneau dominating without facing the same level of challenge he might encounter in college.
Contract Implications: If Carbonneau signs an entry-level contract with the Blues, he becomes ineligible for NCAA hockey in the future, potentially limiting his options if he doesn’t secure an NHL spot this season.
Pressure to Perform: With the Armada expected to be a top team, Carbonneau will face significant pressure to lead and produce at an elite level, especially after his high draft selection. Any postseason struggles, as seen last year, could raise questions about his consistency.
Looking Ahead
Carbonneau’s choice to return to the QMJHL reflects his confidence in his NHL readiness and desire to compete in a familiar, high-stakes environment. Blues fans have plenty to be excited about the potential of their new prospect, who has drawn comparisons to NHL power forwards like Adrian Kempe and Travis Konecny.
For now, Carbonneau’s focus will be on leading the Armada and making a case for an NHL roster spot. His decision underscores the ongoing debate between the CHL and NCAA as development paths, with both sides offering unique advantages. As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes will be on this dynamic winger to see if he can translate his junior success to the next level.