Samuel Houde is moving to Milan. © HC Milano

Milan signs Canadian center

ICE Hockey League newcomer HC Milano has announced the signing of Canadian forward Samuel Houde.

June 29, 2026

From: pm

Born on March 8, 2000, in Blainville, Quebec, Houde (183 cm, 78 kg, left-handed shot) is a center who combines tactical intelligence, game vision, and consistent offensive production. Thanks to his excellent vision on the ice, his ability to quickly distribute the puck, and his strength in face-offs, he can be used in all game situations – including special teams.

Houde was selected by the Montreal Canadiens in the fifth round, 133rd overall, of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. He then spent five full seasons in the QMJHL with the Chicoutimi Saguenéens, for whom he recorded 183 points (67 goals, 116 assists) in 268 games across the regular season and playoffs. He finished his junior career as team captain, wearing the "C" on his jersey.

As a free agent, he subsequently signed with the AHL organization Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, the farm team of the Pittsburgh Penguins, and played three and a half seasons there in the AHL and ECHL. He played 100 AHL games for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, recording 39 points (17 goals, 22 assists). In the ECHL, he confirmed his offensive potential with the Wheeling Nailers, amassing 69 points (25 goals, 44 assists) in 61 games.

Long injury

After his move to Europe to join HC Sierre in the Swiss League, Houder's career was interrupted in January 2025 by a serious forearm injury, which he unfortunately sustained from a skate blade. The incident necessitated a lengthy rehabilitation period. Following a successful recovery, Houder returned to team training in the second half of the 2025/26 season. At that time, Sierre was on course for the championship, and the lines were already well-established.

With the move to Milan, Houde now has the chance to gain regular playing experience and return to the level of performance he showed during his development in North America.