Nicolas Meloche

Nicolas Meloche (born on July 18, 1997) is a Canadian junior ice hockey defenceman. currently playing with the Gatineau Olympiques of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). He was selected 40th overall in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft by the Colorado Avalanche.

Playing Career
Nicolas was drafted by the Baie-Comeau Drakkar in the 1st round (15th overall) of the 2013 QMJHL Entry Draft.

During his first season with Baie-Comeau, he scored 25 points in 54 games to set a franchise record for most points by a rookie defenceman and his outstanding play was recognized when he was named to the 2013–14 QMJHL All-Rookie Team.

The following season, he was chosen to play with the Canada men's national under-18 ice hockey team at the 2014 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament where he helped Canada win the gold medal.

Nicolas was also named to the play with the QMJHL All-Stars at the 2014 Subway Super Series and was selected to participate in the 2015 CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game. Originally rated as a top prospect who was projected to be a possible first round selection in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, he was subsequently selected 40th overall by the Colorado Avalanche.

After attending the Avalanche's 2015 training camp, he began the 2015–16 season in his third year with a rebuilding Drakkar.

Despite languishing in the standings, Nicolas was leading the defense in scoring with 16 points in 25 games before he was traded by Baie-Comeau to title contenders, Gatineau Olympiques in exchange for a prospect and two draft picks on December 16, 2015.