Nathan Riendeau made a strong impression on the scouts in attendance at the 2026 QMJHL Cup. He scored two goals, including the game-winner, and added an assist to help Team Girard secure its first win of the round-robin tournament, 4-2 over Team Benoît, on Friday at the Centre Gervais Auto in Shawinigan.
Despite standing just 5 feet 7 inches tall, Riendeau displayed impressive versatility throughout the game. He stood out as much for his speed as for his tenacity and excellent vision along the boards.
Malik Tremblay and Alexis Turcotte also found the back of the net for the winners. For Team Benoît, Morgan Flemming and Domenico Borsellino responded with goals of their own.
Both teams feature some fiery players, and the defensemen left little room for players venturing in front of the net.
It took skill—and a little bit of luck—to score the game’s first goal. Riendeau pounced on a loose puck before firing a pass towards Malik Tremblay. The pass was partially blocked, but the puck still found its way to Tremblay, who beat Colby O’Shaughnessy.
The most crucial moment of the game came early in the second period, when the teams traded goals. Flemming first scored on the power play with a precise shot from the top of the circle, but Riendeau netted his first just 38 seconds later.
Then, 46 seconds later, Borsellino capitalized on a breakaway to tie the game at 2-2, but Riendeau struck again 2:28 into the period for his third goal of the QMJHL Cup. Alexis Turcotte then scored the insurance marker 69 seconds into the third period.
If the third frame was any indication of what’s to come in this tournament, physical play is likely to take center stage. Shoulder checks were flying, and several intense battles for the puck broke out as the Reds attempted a comeback.
Xavier Lesage was in goal for the winners, stopping 24 shots. O’Shaughnessy, meanwhile, made 25 saves on the other end.
Things are shaping up well for the final two games of the round-robin on Friday night, as all four participating teams have one win each in two games.
If Team Benoît wants to advance to the final, it must defeat Team Beauvillier at 6 p.m. As for Team Girard, it’ll face Team Gaudreau at 8:30 p.m.
–
Game Stats : CLICK HERE
