The Rocket retains the services of captain Gabriel Bourque

Last year, Alex Belzile was named capitiane of the Laval Rocket. He was the ideal candidate for the job for all the reasons we know. The guy’s a leader of men.

He did well and even earned himself, for the first time in his career, a real chance in the NHL. He never returned to Laval because of the injuries, but also because of his game.

And now he’s off to the Rangers organization.

To end the season, Laval named Gabriel Bourque captain. He led his team into the playoffs, which is interesting because he wasn’t a certainty in 2022-2023.

And now he was free.

However, the Rocket announced this morning that they had retained the veteran’s services for next year. The Quebecer has signed a one-year contract in the AHL.

We imagine he’ll keep his “C” this season too. After all, he was named to replace a guy who left, and Bourque won’t be able to be recalled by the Habs.

Why not? Because he’s not under contract with the Habs: he’s only under contract with the Rocket.

The 32-year-old scored 31 points in 66 games last year. Under the command of Jean-François Houle for the past two years, he clearly seems to enjoy playing in Quebec.

He has been playing in the pros since 2010. He played for the Milwaukee Admirals, San Antonio Rampage, Nashville Predators, Colorado Avalanche and Winnipeg Jets before landing in Laval.

He has 413 games of NHL experience. This means he’ll be able to mentor all the youngsters coming through the Rocket’s ranks next year, which is a really good thing.

It’s a great signing.

In bursts

– Big development.

– Her experience is different.

– All the better.

– Really?