LAVAL | The Canadian is full of blue line prospects and two of those gems, Logan Mailloux and David Reinbacher, have shown great things with the Laval Rocket.
• Also read: Jean-François Houle is unsure of his future and would like to return to the rocket
In his first professional season, Mailloux established himself by playing all 72 games for the team, in which he collected 14 goals and 33 assists for 47 points, ranking third among American League defensemen.
His good performances earned him an invitation to the AHL All-Star Game and a selection to the circuit's All-Rookie team.
“I feel like I've made good progress. “I improved my consistency across the ice, in the defensive zone and in physical play,” admitted the guard from Ontario, who showed great defensive development.
“Logan’s progress has been incredible. “I don’t think he could have done better and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him in the NHL,” confirmed his teammate Tobie Paquette-Bisson.
Welcome
When we asked Mailloux how he would be received by Rocket fans given his history, his eyes lit up.
“The fans are incredible and they have given me nothing but love. I never thought I would be so well received. It didn’t really scare me because I couldn’t do much.”
He received the same welcome at the Bell Center last week, and that's good because that's where he'll likely be playing next season. But he prefers to remain conservative.
“It’s something you have to prove every time. In September, what I've done here this year won't count for much anymore, I have to prove myself. Consistency is what allows the best players to stay in the NHL,” said Mailloux, who also said he comes from the 15th divisione or 20e Match with the rocket that he felt really comfortable.
Reinbacher relaxed
David Reinbacher came to the Swiss League in Laval after Kloten HC's season ended. The Canadian's first choice (5e overall) during the last draft I found my way around quickly.
The Austrian scored a goal in his first game and collected two goals and three assists in eleven games, as well as a +6 differential.
“I like his control of space, he has a very good racket, he needs to get stronger, he played a little cautiously and that's normal,” analyzed coach Jean-François Houle.
“It's a great experience, I played eleven games, I understand the league and know how to prepare for next season,” said the 19-year-old, who is expected to start the season at Laval next year.
“I have to prepare to arrive at training camp [du Canadien] and to show myself in my best light.”
Paquette-Bisson, who played with him, expects to see him hatch.
“He is very easy to play with. He's very intelligent, he talks a lot, he's pretty physical and he walks well. Honestly, he’s a professional and we’ll see him in Montreal.”
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