Dufour having quite the season

Michael Hawkins/Saint John Sea Dogs

SAINT JOHN - William Dufour is having an incredible season.

The 19-year-old currently leads the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League in goals with 18 and sits third in points with 36. He's been held pointless in just two of the Saint John Sea Dogs' 22 games this year.

But perhaps were undervaluing just how good of a season the New York Islanders prospect is having. Take a look at this tweet for example.

Dufour is on pace for a 55 goal season.

Last time a player hit 50 in the @QMJHL was Alex Baré-Boulet in 17-18 with 53 goals and 116 points.#Isles

— Michel Anderson (@TLOMitch) November 26, 2021

Following Saturday's game, Dufour is on pace for just under 56 goals and 111 points if he were to play the full 68-game schedule. If Dufour maintains that pace, it would place him in some pretty select company in Sea Dogs franchise history.

The franchise record for goals in a single season is owned by Danick Gauthier who recorded 47 in 2011-12. Mike Hoffman, meanwhile, scored 46 in 2009-10 while Jonathan Huberdeau netted 43 in 2010-11. Only five players have scored 40 or more goals in Sea Dogs history.

1. Danick Gauthier - 47 (2011-12)

2. Mike Hoffman - 46 (2009-10)

3. Jonathan Huberdeau - 43 (2010-11)

4. Scott Howes - 42 (2007-08)

5. Bokondji Imama - 41 (2016-17)

Huberdeau is the only Sea Dog to ever surpass 100 points in a single season, recording 105 in 2010-11.

1. Jonathan Huberdeau - 105 (2010-11)

2. Chris DiDomenico - 95 (2007-08)

3. Zack Phillips - 95 (2010-11)

4. Matthew Highmore - 89 (2016-17)

5. Danick Gauthier - 86 (2011-12)

Could Dufour join these elite clubs? It's possible - especially considering the Sea Dogs should be beefed up offensively following the trade deadline - but it obviously won't be a simple task. You have to think Dufour is on the radar for an invite to Canada's world junior camp, which would cut into his playing time, plus there is the possibility of injuries (hopefully not) or even just some rest late in the season.

No matter what happens the rest of the way, the point is this: Dufour is having an incredible season so far, one that could end up being one of the best statistically in team history.

(It's also worth noting that in all of the seasons listed above, the Sea Dogs made it to at least the semifinals. So there's a good omen for you.)

Dufour and the Sea Dogs return to action on Tuesday, hosting the Halifax Mooseheads at 7 p.m.