Laval Rocket

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Laval called Rocket?

The Laval Rocket is named in honor of Maurice "Rocket" Richard, one of the most legendary players in hockey history and a revered icon for the Montreal Canadiens. Maurice Richard, known as "The Rocket," was famous for his incredible speed, scoring prowess, and fiery passion on the ice. Naming the team "Rocket" pays tribute to his lasting legacy and deep connection to Quebec's hockey culture. When the franchise relocated to Laval in 2017, a fan vote determined the team's new name, with "Rocket" emerging as the clear favorite. This choice resonates strongly with local fans and reflects the region's pride in its hockey heritage. The name also serves as a symbolic link between the Laval Rocket, the Montreal Canadiens, and their shared history, reinforcing the team's identity within the AHL and Canadian hockey. The Rocket name inspires both players and supporters, encapsulating the spirit of excellence, determination, and tradition that defines hockey in Quebec.

Who is the farm team for the Montreal Canadiens?

The Laval Rocket is the official farm team, or American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, of the Montreal Canadiens in the National Hockey League (NHL). As the Canadiens' primary development team, the Laval Rocket plays a crucial role in nurturing young talent and preparing prospects for the NHL. Players on the Rocket roster are often drafted or signed by the Canadiens and sent to Laval for further development, gaining valuable professional experience before making the jump to the NHL. This partnership allows the Canadiens to closely monitor and cultivate their future stars within a system that emphasizes similar playing styles and strategies. The Rocket regularly features top prospects, depth players, and those recovering from injury, all working towards earning a spot with the Montreal Canadiens. The close proximity between Laval and Montreal also enables seamless movement of players and staff, strengthening the organizational bond and ensuring consistent development of hockey talent in Quebec.

Who is the GM of the Laval Rocket?

As of the 2023-2024 AHL season, the General Manager (GM) of the Laval Rocket is John Sedgwick. Sedgwick was appointed to the role in February 2022, succeeding previous GM Laurent Dauphin. With a background in hockey operations and legal affairs, Sedgwick brings a wealth of experience to the position, having served in key roles within the Montreal Canadiens organization, including as Vice President of Hockey Operations and Legal Affairs. As GM of the Laval Rocket, Sedgwick is responsible for overseeing team management, player transactions, and the development of prospects in coordination with the Canadiens' front office. His leadership is pivotal in ensuring the Rocket serves as an effective pipeline for NHL-ready talent and maintains a competitive team within the AHL. Under Sedgwick's guidance, the Laval Rocket continues to foster a winning culture and prioritize player growth, strengthening the connection with the Montreal Canadiens and maintaining Laval's reputation as a top AHL franchise.

Where are the Rockets hockey teams from?

The Laval Rocket hockey team is based in Laval, Quebec, Canada. Laval is a suburb located just north of Montreal, making it an ideal location for the AHL affiliate of the Montreal Canadiens. The team plays its home games at Place Bell, a state-of-the-art arena situated in the heart of Laval. The "Rockets" name has also been used by other hockey teams at various levels and in different locations, but the Laval Rocket is specifically the AHL team representing Laval. Other teams with the "Rockets" name include the Kelowna Rockets (WHL) from Kelowna, British Columbia, and historically, the Houston Aeros were once called the Houston Rockets in the Central Hockey League. However, when referring to the Laval Rocket, it specifically means the professional AHL hockey team from Laval, Quebec. The city takes pride in its team, which serves as a vital part of the local sports community and plays a key role in developing future NHL talent for the Montreal Canadiens.

What is the Laval Rocket?

The Laval Rocket is a professional ice hockey team that competes in the American Hockey League (AHL), serving as the primary minor league affiliate for the NHL's Montreal Canadiens. Established in 2017, the team was created when the Canadiens relocated their AHL affiliate from St. John's, Newfoundland, to Laval, Quebec. The Rocket plays its home games at Place Bell, a modern arena in Laval, and features a roster composed of top prospects and developing players within the Canadiens organization. The team's name pays tribute to the legendary Maurice "Rocket" Richard, reflecting Quebec's deep hockey roots and heritage. The Laval Rocket is dedicated to fostering young talent and preparing players for their NHL careers, while also providing fans in Laval and the greater Montreal area with exciting, high-level hockey action. As one of the AHL's prominent franchises, the Laval Rocket plays a vital role in the development pipeline of the Montreal Canadiens and is a central figure in Quebec's passionate hockey community.