The Montreal Canadiens will have a coach with NHL experience running the bench for their AHL affiliate.
The Canadiens announced on Tuesday that former Columbus Blue Jackets coach Pascal Vincent has been hired to coach the Laval Rocket.
Vincent was promoted to head coach of the Blue Jackets before the 2023-24 season after the club dismissed Mike Babcock. Vincent was previously an assistant coach for two years with Columbus.
The Blue Jackets fired Vincent in June after he went 27-43-12.
The native of Laval, Que., was head coach of the AHL’s Manitoba Moose from 2016-21 after five years as an assistant with the parent Winnipeg Jets. He was named the AHL’s top coach for the 2017-18 season.
Vincent also has 11 years of head-coaching experience in the QMJHL.
“The Montreal Canadiens organization is proud to welcome Pascal Vincent as the new head coach of the Laval Rocket. With nearly 30 years of coaching experience at the QMJHL, AHL and NHL levels, Pascal brings a wealth of knowledge, a passion for the game and a proven track record of both winning and player development,” Rocket GM John Sedgwick said in a statement released by the organization.
The Montreal Canadiens have announced that Pascal Vincent will be taking over as the head coach for their AHL affiliate team, the Laval Rocket. Vincent, who previously served as an assistant coach for the Winnipeg Jets, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the position.
Vincent is no stranger to success in the AHL, having previously coached the Manitoba Moose to a Calder Cup playoff appearance. His leadership and coaching style have been praised by players and management alike, making him a natural choice for the head coaching position with the Laval Rocket.
The Montreal Canadiens are confident that Vincent will be able to develop and nurture the young talent within the organization, helping them to reach their full potential and eventually make the jump to the NHL. With his proven track record of success in developing players, Vincent is seen as a key piece in the Canadiens’ plan for long-term success.
Vincent’s appointment comes at a crucial time for the Laval Rocket, as they look to build on their recent success and continue to compete at a high level in the AHL. With Vincent at the helm, there is no doubt that the team will be in good hands and poised for future success.
Fans of the Montreal Canadiens and the Laval Rocket can look forward to seeing what Pascal Vincent will bring to the team as head coach. His experience, leadership, and passion for the game make him a valuable asset to the organization, and his appointment is sure to bring excitement and optimism for the future of the team.