A successful training camp coming to an end
By Justin Vézina
Building and installing a “structure”. That was Jean-François Houle’s main objective at training camp, in his words. Not only did the head coach conclude that he had succeeded in achieving his goals, but the Laval Rocket won its two preparatory games with flying colors.
First, on Thursday afternoon, the Laval club defeated the Marlies 3-1 in Toronto. Then, on Sunday afternoon at Place Bell, the Rocket won 5-2 against the Belleville Senators to conclude its preparatory schedule.
“There were a lot of things we did well [during the two games]. Our forecheck was excellent, our offensive zone play was good, we scored three power-play goals and we were able to practice our shorthanded offense against Belleville. So it’s all going to pay off,” he noted.
Ultimately, these different scenarios will be invaluable in providing video footage that will “demonstrate our structure and the concepts we want to implement”, says Houle.
And the strategies being implemented are working. That’s the view of forward Joshua Roy, scorer of three assists in the game against the Senators.
“You have to give credit to J-F. I think the game plan he’s putting in place is excellent. If we stick to it, we’ll definitely create chances to score,” noted the man who played with Philippe Maillet and Filip Mesar.
Focus on the regular season
On Monday, the Rocket will begin preparations for their first duel of the season, against the Abbotsford Canucks on Friday night. Although all AHL teams are tied in the standings with no official games played, defenseman Logan Mailloux already sees his squad as one of the title contenders.
“We’re a young team, but I feel we have several excellent players. I hope we have a good season, qualify for the playoffs and can win the Calder Cup. That’s the goal,” said number 24.
And this quest for success begins on October 13, with the first of two duels in less than 24 hours against the Canucks. For the occasion, Place Bell will be sold out for the opening game, which Roy is already excited about.
“Two years ago, I played in the playoffs and it was an incredible experience,” he says of playing in front of a sold-out Place Bell. For the umpteenth time, Laval’s home ground should be as wild as ever.
