The Laval Rocket, the AHL affiliate of the Montreal Canadiens, have completed their first ten games of the 2025-2026 season. With a record of 6 wins and 4 losses, here are three key takeaways from their performance so far.
1. Solid Start Despite Key Departures
Coming off an appearance in the Eastern Conference Final last season, the Laval Rocket entered the new season with aspirations of contending for the Calder Cup. However, the team faced significant changes in the offseason, losing key players such as veteran defenseman Tyler Wotherspoon, leading scorer Alex Barré-Boulet, and standout goaltender Cayden Primeau. Despite these departures, the Rocket have managed a solid start to the season, demonstrating the depth and quality of the remaining roster.
The team has found ways to compensate for the lost offensive production, with players like Sean Farrell and Laurent Dauphin stepping up. The team's top line remains largely intact, with Alex Belzile taking Barré-Boulet's spot. Additionally, the emergence of younger players has provided a boost to the team's overall performance.
2. Goaltending Stability with Jacob Fowler
One of the most significant changes for the Laval Rocket this season is in goal, with Jacob Fowler taking over as the primary netminder. With the departure of Cayden Primeau, the Rocket are looking to Fowler to provide stability and consistency between the pipes.
Fowler's performance in the first ten games has been promising, showcasing his potential as a future NHL goaltender. Although he has had his ups and downs, his overall play has been solid, giving the team a chance to win each night. His poise and technical skills have been particularly noteworthy, providing a calming presence for the team's defense.
3. Strong Defensive Play and Penalty Killing
The Laval Rocket have demonstrated a commitment to strong defensive play early in the season. The team has been effective at limiting opponents' scoring opportunities and have showcased a solid penalty-killing unit.
Key defensemen like Adam Engström and Tobie Bisson have played significant roles in the team's defensive success. Engström's offensive contributions from the blue line have also been a valuable asset. Bisson is tied for fifth in the AHL in plus-minus rating. The team's ability to shut down opposing offenses has been a major factor in their winning record.
Overall, the Laval Rocket have shown promise in their first ten games, overcoming the loss of key players and establishing a strong team identity. With solid goaltending, strong defensive play, and contributions from both returning and younger players, the Rocket appear poised to be a competitive team in the AHL's North Division. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see if they can maintain their strong play and contend for a Calder Cup championship.
