Rumor: Joël Bouchard at the Syracuse Crunch

A few weeks ago, a rumor surfaced bringing Benoît Groulx to the NHL. He has been linked to the Arizona Coyotes to become assistant to his good friend André Tourigny.

And it looks like it’s true. We’re told that the chances of the Quebecer leaving the Syracuse Crunch for the NHL are very good right now.

That’s good news.

Even if we’re talking about the most dysfunctional market in the NHL, this is great news for him. It will allow him to add another string to his bow and try to become an NHL pilot one day.

Since 2016, the Gatineau Olympiques legend has been at the helm of the Lighnting’s training club, the Crunch. Naturally, if he leaves Syracuse, he’ll have to be replaced by someone else.

And obviously, Joël Bouchard’s name is very popular over there. His chances of getting the job are great.

Bouchard, who hasn’t been coaching for a year following his dismissal from San Diego, is known for having been at the helm of the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada and the Laval Rocket.

Now he’s getting another chance in a logical environment.

Why do I say this? Because the Crunch has never been afraid to trust local talent. Benoît Groulx worked under Julien BriseBois and Mathieu Darche, and several Quebecers played in Syracuse before making the jump to Tampa Bay.

This brings us to Éric Veilleux, who has been Groulx’s assistant for the past four years. All indications are that he too may be moving on under a new coach. But why?

Because Danny Dupont, the Océanic’s new GM, is reportedly trying to bring him back to the QMJHL.

Veilleux has enjoyed success in the Q. Although he has never won the President’s Cup, he has led his teams (Cataractes, Drakkar and Mooseheads) to the final four times. He also has a Memorial Cup under his tie from 2012.

He’s one to watch.

Breaking news

– File to follow in Laval.

– It changed everything.

– Yes.

– Good for him.

– Indeed.