**Laval Rocket Goalies Shine with Impressive 8-1-0 Record to Start the Season**
The Laval Rocket, the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Montreal Canadiens, are off to a scorching start this season, and much of their early success can be attributed to their stellar goaltending duo. As of November, the team boasts an impressive 8-1-0 record, with both netminders delivering strong performances that have kept the Rocket in the upper echelons of the AHL’s North Division.
In the AHL, where consistency and resilience are key to winning games, the Laval goalies have been nothing short of exceptional. With a combined goals-against average (GAA) well below 2.00 and save percentage above .930, the duo has helped keep the team competitive in every outing, allowing them to climb the standings with confidence.
### A Solid 1-2 Punch
The Rocket’s goaltending tandem this season consists of veteran *Cayden Primeau* and rookie *Jakub Dobes*. Both have displayed elite-level performances and have contributed in different ways to the team’s success.
Primeau, the more seasoned of the two, has brought stability and experience to Laval’s crease. The 24-year-old, who is also a former standout for the University of Northeastern, has been solid in his six appearances, posting a 4-1-0 record. Primeau’s quick reflexes, ability to handle high-pressure situations, and his leadership in the locker room have been invaluable to the team.
Meanwhile, Dobes, the 22-year-old rookie, has stepped up with aplomb in his AHL debut season. With a 4-0-0 record so far, the young Czech has quickly earned the trust of the coaching staff. Dobes’s agility, calm demeanor, and impressive puck tracking have made him a reliable option between the pipes. He earned his first AHL shutout in a dominant 4-0 win over the Rochester Americans in late October, a performance that had the Laval faithful buzzing about his potential.
### Keeping the Puck Out
A key factor in the Rocket’s success has been their ability to limit high-danger scoring chances. Laval’s defense corps, led by veterans like *Corey Schueneman* and *Giovani Smith*, has been adept at clearing traffic in front of the net and blocking shots, allowing the goaltenders to focus on tracking the puck. This defensive support has been instrumental in making both Primeau and Dobes’ jobs easier, as the team has allowed fewer shots and fewer quality scoring chances than many of their AHL peers.
Additionally, the team’s penalty kill has been a strength, with both goalies stepping up to neutralize opposing power plays. Primeau’s quick glove hand and Dobes’s smooth skating on rebounds have been essential in keeping the Rocket ahead in tight games.
### Looking Ahead
As the Laval Rocket continue to build momentum, the tandem of Primeau and Dobes figures to play a critical role in maintaining their strong start. With the Montreal Canadiens still in the process of developing their NHL roster, both goalies will remain under close scrutiny, and their performances will likely influence future decisions within the Canadiens’ organization.
In the meantime, Rocket fans can look forward to more stellar goaltending as their team pushes forward in what is shaping up to be an exciting season in the AHL.
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