Quebecer Pascal Vincent has been hired as head coach by the Laval Rocket, confirmed Montreal Canadiens farm club general manager John Sedgwick on Tuesday morning.
He succeeds Jean-François Houle, who left his position as head coach of the Rocket a few days earlier last month to return to Clarkson University, his alma mater, where he became the head coach of the men’s program.
“The Canadiens organization is proud to welcome Pascal Vincent as head coach of the Laval Rocket. With 30 years of coaching experience in the QMJHL, AHL and NHL, Pascal brings a wealth of knowledge and an undeniable passion for hockey,” Sedgwick said in a statement.
“His extensive expertise has proven to be a key element in developing young talent while showcasing his desire to win throughout his coaching career. His values, collaborative spirit and work ethic make him an ideal fit for our organization and the right person to work with our talented group of young players,” he added.
Vincent was fired as head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets last month after spending three seasons — including the first two as an assistant coach — with the Ohio organization.
Vincent will participate in a videoconference with the Montreal media at 1 p.m. this afternoon.
The 52-year-old from Laval compiled a 27-43-12 record last year with the Blue Jackets, his only season at the helm of an NHL club in his career. He inherited the team’s reins following the firing of Mike Babcock, shortly after his appointment.
Prior to joining the Blue Jackets, Vincent previously spent 10 seasons in the Winnipeg Jets organization: five as an assistant coach with the Jets and five as head coach of their affiliate, the Manitoba Moose.
Vincent was also a head coach in the QMJHL for 11 seasons: eight with the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles and three with the Montreal Juniors.