Pascal Vincent has been appointed as the new head coach of the Laval Rocket, becoming the fourth to hold this position after Sylvain Lefebvre, Joël Bouchard, and Jean-François Houle.
Transitioning from an NHL role to a lower-tier position might seem challenging, but Vincent accepted the role since it’s close to home and allows him to lead the team.
The role presents an intriguing challenge, focusing on developing prospects and collaborating with Martin St-Louis. Currently, their acquaintance is mostly based on reputation.
Before a recent game, Vincent and St-Louis reconnected with their former coaches from the Régents LLL (midget AAA), Guy Lefrançois, Michel Léveillé, and Daniel Noonan. They wished each other luck, though not for that night’s game.
Despite recent conversations, Vincent and St-Louis still have a lot of work to do to build a chemistry that will elevate Laval’s prospects to the NHL as effectively as in the JF Houle era.
Vincent aims to create an environment that supports young players and serves the Canadiens in his capacity, focusing on supporting rather than replacing St-Louis.
This marks the first time St-Louis will collaborate with a coach other than Jean-François Houle at Laval, benefitting from Vincent’s experience.
Interestingly, months ago, St-Louis explained Vincent’s playing system following a game between the Blue Jackets and the Canadiens. Without realizing it, he provided insight into Vincent’s future system at Laval.
After the Canadiens’ 3-0 victory on March 12, 2024, St-Louis commented on Vincent’s team’s performance, noting Cayden Primeau’s 41 saves. He mentioned that his hybrid defense was challenged by Columbus’ active style.
St-Louis pointed out that Columbus’ defenders were very active and received the puck often, complicating the game for the Canadiens. Despite the win, he acknowledged that Columbus had made it difficult.
With many young offensive defensemen emerging in the Canadiens’ organization, Vincent’s arrival is timely. St-Louis might have considered the March 12 game when he saw Vincent getting the job, likely pleased to integrate Vincent’s style into the organization instead of opposing it.
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