Like the Montreal Canadiens, the Laval Rocket returned from a long break on Wednesday evening by receiving a visit from the Syracuse Crunch at Place Bell. Jean-Sébastien Dea allowed Jean-François Houle’s troop to sign a third consecutive win.
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It is a consolation prize for Dea, who had been recalled by the Habs a few days ago, without however having the opportunity to make his debut in the blue-white-red uniform. The Quebecer broke a tie 2-2 in the middle of the third period with his ninth goal of the season.
This match was the occasion for some returns to Quebec. Devante Smith-Pelly, who played for the Canadian from 2015 to 2016, was in his first meeting with the Rocket. The striker, who agreed with the team on the terms of a professional try, directed a shot towards the opposing net.
However, it was the return of a little local guy that caught the eye. Two years after leaving Laval, Charles Hudon continued to rain and shine at Place Bell, leveling the score in the second period.
A beautiful goal
Alexandre Fortin had scored the Rocket after five minutes of play, then Maxim Cajkovic had done the same for the Crunch in the next engagement.
The Rocket players went from a beautiful game piece to take the lead. In a quick two-to-one shorthanded rally, Gabriel Bourque handed Brandon Gignac and the latter had to jump over a defenseman who was slipping. Gignac barely had time to stretch his stick to beat Maxime Lagacé, who bit on the first pass.
Michael McNiven delivered a strong performance in goal for the Rocket, making 31 saves.
Laval had not played since his win on December 17, against the Providence Bruins. The CH school club will now travel to Springfield to fight for victory over the Thunderbirds on Friday.