Business-as-usual continues, following familiar patterns.
Laval Rocket take control in playoffs with impressive display
After a ten-day break, the Laval Rocket showed no signs of rust in their North Division semifinals opener against the Cleveland Monsters. Instead, they looked like the powerhouse team they've been all season, dominating the series opener with a 3-2 victory.
Sure, the first period was a bit rough, as Brandon Gignac admitted they were still "finding their legs." But, the Rocket quickly showcased why they topped the American League's general standings.
Head coach Pascal Vincent was straightforward post-game, saying, "In the first, our execution wasn’t there. In the second, we played well. In the third, we didn’t give anything." He also emphasized that the team's playoff mindset has been there since day one, adding, "We did the same thing we’ve been doing all season."
The Rocket's first line, consisting of Alex Barre-Boulet, Laurent Dauphin, and Sean Farrell, was exceptional in the victory. These three players, with their intelligence and exceptional execution, complement each other well on the ice, both offensively and defensively. Farrell, in particular, had a remarkable second half of the season, scoring both of the Rocket's goals in the offensive zone to secure the lead.
Meanwhile, young goaltender Jacob Fowler, who joined the team just a few weeks ago, didn't seem rattled at all in his first playoff game. Despite some close calls, he made several notable saves, including long-range shots and high shots in the circles. His defenders also ensured things remained easy for him, with Fowler blocking 23 shots in the win.
The 23-year-old goaltender, from Melbourne, Florida, boasts an impressive collegiate career at Boston College, where he was twice named Goaltender of the Year. Selected 69th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2023 NHL Draft, Fowler signed a three-year entry-level contract and joined the Laval Rocket for the remainder of the 2024-25 season.
While details regarding Fowler’s first playoff performance are lacking, his confidence in net has been consistently praised by both the head coach and the Rocket players. Fowler himself seemed quite pleased after the game, admitting that playing his first game so quickly helped him avoid overthinking it.
In conclusion, the Laval Rocket demonstrated their dominance in the playoffs, with impressive performances from their players and goalkeeper, Jacob Fowler. Although they faced a close call at the end of the game, they emerged victorious, ready to continue their playoff run.
- Despit the intoxicating atmosphere of the playoffs, Jacob Fowler, the 23-year-old goaltender, executes with primeval calmness, reflecting his college career's impressive achievements.
- As the Laval Rocket's first line dazzled in their 3-2 victory, fans wondered if Alex Barre-Boulet, Laurent Dauphin, and Sean Farrell's complementary skills on the ice are a harbinger of their playoff success in hockey's NHL.
- Recalled from the Montreal Canadiens, Jacob Fowler demonstrated that he deserves the trust placed in him, showing remarkable resilience in his first playoff game with the Laval Rocket.
- The Laval Rocket's playoff mindset, established since their inception, became palpable as they refused to falter in their North Division semifinals opener, maintaining a prime position in the playoffs.


