The Laval Rocket have found their man behind the bench: Pascal Vincent, who was named head coach on Tuesday.

After leading the Columbus Blue Jackets last season, the Quebec native will replace Jean-François Houle, who left his position a few weeks ago to take on identical roles at Clarkson University in the NCAA. The new mentor of the Montreal Canadiens’ farm club has thus given up a contract with his former team that still had a year left on it.

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“With 30 years of experience as a trainer, […] Pascal brings a wealth of knowledge and an undeniable passion for hockey. His vast expertise has proven to be a key element in developing young talent while underscoring his will to win throughout his coaching career. His values, team spirit and work ethic make him an ideal fit for our organization and the right person to work with our group of talented young players. We are pleased to have a coach of his caliber and are excited about the future,” Rocket General Manager John Sedgwick said in a press release.

Vincent has an extensive hockey resume, having spent five years at the helm of the Manitoba Moose in the American League. In Ohio, new general manager Don Waddell released him at the end of the 2023-2024 season, in which the Jackets finished last in the National League Eastern Conference. Still looking for a driver, Columbus posted a record of 27-43-12 with 66 points.

In Laval, the Rockets will look to bounce back from a disappointing playoff exit this year, which saw them earn 74 points in 72 games but end up in the basement of an extremely difficult Northern Section.

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