With a plethora of Montreal Canadiens selections set to turn pro, the Laval Rocket could have a very interesting, young core for the 2023 campaign.
The Rocket finished last season in fifth place in the AHL’s North Division and lost the play-in series in two straight games. They technically made the playoffs by getting into the play-in series but were not able to advance even to the round of 16 playoff teams.
Next season, winning is not going to mean everything in Laval. The focus is going to switch fully to development of young players as the team is going to be inundated with young prospects that have high hopes about helping the Canadiens in the near future. The playoffs may not be in sights for the 2023-24 Laval Rocket, but that will not be the focus anyway as development of these new arrivals will become the top priority for head coach J.F. Houle and his staff.
While growing pains are synonymous with young players stepping into a new league, the development and talent will be a treat to watch. The crop of talent set to head to Laval over the next couple of seasons, Place Bell will certainly be loud and proud.
While Logan Mailloux is yet to get confirmation from NHL commissioner Gary Bettman about his NHL status, he will most certainly be a welcomed addition to the Rocket blue line. The forward crop is an interesting one as well, considering the log jam in the NHL, some talented players could find themselves in Laval until the trade deadline. And, as far as goaltending goes, Primeau will have some competition as well.
Without further ado, let’s dive into the potential additions for the 2023 edition of Rocket lineup.
The list will be compiled of four defensemen, one goaltender and five forwards.