The Laval Rocket secured their place in the next round of the playoffs with a decisive 4-1 victory over the Cleveland Monsters in Game 4 of their best-of-five series on May 6, 2025. After a disappointing loss in Game 3, the Rocket came out strong, scoring three goals in the first period and never looking back.
Xavier Simoneau opened the scoring just four minutes into the game, followed by power-play goals from Laurent Dauphin and Logan Mailloux, giving the Rocket a commanding 3-0 lead. The Monsters struggled to find their rhythm, being outshot 13-4 in the first period, and their hopes dimmed further when Dauphin added another goal in the third period, restoring the three-goal cushion.
Despite a valiant effort from Monsters' goalie Jet Greaves, who made 32 saves, Cleveland's season came to an end, losing the series 3-1. They had kept their playoff hopes alive with a win in Game 3, but the Rocket's early offensive onslaught proved too much to overcome. The Monsters needed to win three straight games at Laval to take the series after dropping the first two at Rocket Arena.
After the game, Rocket head coach Jean-François Houle expressed pride in his team's performance. "We showed up ready to play tonight, and it was important for us to establish our game early," he said. "The guys executed the game plan perfectly, and it paid off with those early goals."
The Rocket's offense was spearheaded by their dynamic players, with Simoneau, Dauphin, and Mailloux all making significant contributions. Simoneau's early goal set the tone, while Mailloux's power-play goal showcased the team's effectiveness with the man advantage. The Rocket's ability to capitalize on opportunities was a key factor in their success.
"We knew we had to come out strong after the loss in Game 3," said Mailloux. "It was all about putting the pressure on them and not letting up. We did that well tonight."
Cleveland managed to get on the board in the second period with a goal from Luca Del Bel Belluz, but the Rocket's defense held firm, with goalie Jacob Fowler stopping 18 of 19 shots. Fowler's solid performance was crucial in maintaining the Rocket's lead and ultimately securing the victory. "I felt good out there, and the guys played great in front of me," Fowler commented after the game. "We knew we had to be focused and not let them back into the game."
With this victory, the Laval Rocket advance to the AHL's North Division championship series, where they will look to continue their playoff run. The team has shown resilience and determination throughout the series, bouncing back from setbacks and demonstrating their capability to perform under pressure.
The Rocket's playoff journey has been marked by strong individual performances, with several prospects stepping up to contribute. Players like Oliver Kapanen and Owen Beck have been instrumental in the Rocket's success, showcasing their skills and potential as future NHL talents.
Kapanen, who had five shots in the previous game, has been a standout player, demonstrating impressive skating and two-way play. His ability to create turnovers and generate offensive chances has made him a vital part of the Rocket's lineup. "I just try to play my game and contribute however I can," Kapanen said. "The playoffs are a great opportunity to show what we can do as a team."
Beck, known for his grinding style of play, has also made his presence felt on the ice. His work ethic and determination to win battles along the boards have added depth to the Rocket's lineup. "We all know what’s at stake in the playoffs, and we have to give it our all every shift," Beck remarked.
As the Rocket prepare for the next round, they will need to maintain their focus and continue to build on their momentum. The coaching staff will undoubtedly analyze their performance against the Monsters to identify areas for improvement and ensure they are ready for the challenges ahead.
The Laval Rocket's victory not only advances them in the playoffs but also serves as a testament to their growth as a team. With a mix of experienced players and promising prospects, the Rocket are poised to make a significant impact in the remainder of the Calder Cup playoffs.
As they look ahead to the North Division championship series, the Rocket will aim to carry this winning momentum and continue to play their brand of hockey. The excitement surrounding the team is palpable, and fans are eager to see how far they can go in their quest for the Calder Cup.
With the next round on the horizon, the Laval Rocket are ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead, and they remain focused on their ultimate goal: bringing home the championship trophy.
