Rocket @ Bruins Recap & Highlights: Logan Mailloux Plays Overtime Hero Once Again
In a thrilling matchup between the Laval Rocket and the Providence Bruins, it was once again Logan Mailloux who stole the spotlight, playing the overtime hero for the Rocket in a 4-3 win. The game, filled with momentum swings and a dramatic finish, highlighted the rising star’s continued clutch performances and demonstrated why he’s quickly becoming one of the most exciting young players in the American Hockey League (AHL).
The game started off with high energy, as both teams skated hard from the puck drop. The Bruins, looking to extend their dominance on home ice, opened the scoring midway through the first period. A beautiful cross-ice pass found Jackson Norrish at the backdoor, and he made no mistake, putting the Bruins up 1-0. The Rocket quickly responded, however, with Alex Belzile scoring a power-play goal to tie the game at 1-1 before the first intermission.
The second period saw the intensity ramp up even further. Providence took a 2-1 lead early on after Oskar Steen capitalized on a rebound during a scramble in front of the net. Laval wasn’t backing down, though, and it didn’t take long for them to answer back. Jesse Ylönen, who has been playing some of his best hockey of late, took a sharp-angle shot that beat Providence’s goaltender Brandon Bussi, making it 2-2. The teams exchanged opportunities throughout the period, but neither could break the tie.
As the game entered the third period, the stakes couldn’t have been higher. Laval’s Joshua Roy gave the Rocket their first lead of the game with a fantastic wrist shot that found the top corner, putting Laval ahead 3-2. The crowd at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center was stunned, and the Bruins were on their heels. But Providence wasn’t done yet, and in typical fashion, they clawed back. With just under two minutes remaining, Chris Wagner fired a shot through traffic that deflected past Cayden Primeau to tie the game 3-3 and send the game into overtime.
As the game moved into the extra frame, both teams had their chances, with Primeau coming up huge with a few key saves to keep Laval in it. But in the final minute of overtime, it was Logan Mailloux who delivered the dagger. Taking a pass from Xavier Simoneau on a 2-on-1 rush, Mailloux showed poise and confidence beyond his years. He picked his spot and blasted a shot past Bussi, sending the Rocket bench into a frenzy and sealing the 4-3 victory for Laval.
It’s hard to overstate just how clutch Mailloux has been for the Rocket this season. The 20-year-old defenseman has developed into a key figure in all situations for Laval, whether it’s on the power play, penalty kill, or in overtime. His ice vision, offensive instincts, and calm demeanor under pressure make him a player to watch as the season progresses.
“We have a lot of belief in Logan, especially in big moments,” said Rocket head coach Jean-François Houle after the game. “He’s been fantastic for us this season, and his ability to step up when it matters most is exactly what you want from a young player. He’s proving he can be a difference-maker at this level.”
For Laval, this win is a significant one, especially against a strong Providence Bruins team. With the AHL playoff race heating up, victories like these are critical in positioning the Rocket for a postseason run. With Mailloux leading the charge, it’s clear that Laval is in good hands as they continue to fight for a playoff spot.
As for Mailloux, this overtime goal only further solidifies his status as one of the most exciting prospects in the Montreal Canadiens system. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations is something that will no doubt make him a key figure in the future of the Habs. For now, though, Rocket fans can relish in the fact that they have an overtime hero who thrives when it counts most.
