The Montreal Canadiens are set to have a new goaltender overseeing their system next season. Laval Rocket, the Canadiens’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, announced the signing of goalie Benjamin Gaudreau to a one-year two-way contract for the 2025-26 season.
Gaudreau spent the majority of the 2024-25 campaign playing in the ECHL with the Indy Fuel, where he appeared in 43 games, posting a 21-16-6 record, a .902 save percentage, and a 2.46 goals-against average. He also played five AHL games with the Ice Hogs, recording a 2-2-0 record, an .868 save percentage, and a 3.19 goals-against average.
This marks Gaudreau’s rookie professional season, following four years in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) where he split time between the Sarnia Sting and the Erie Otters. Over 151 OHL games, he earned a 74-54-15 record. Gaudreau was drafted 81st overall by the San Jose Sharks in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft.
Although still young at 22, Gaudreau offers Laval valuable goalie depth while gaining experience in both the AHL and ECHL. Whether he continues to develop into a reliable goaltender or remains a solid minor-league option, his presence strengthens the Canadiens’ goalie ranks.
Fans will be watching closely to see if Gaudreau can elevate his game in the upcoming season.
Fan Take: This signing is a promising sign for Canadiens fans looking to bolster their goaltending pipeline. Gaudreau’s growth could indicate a bright future for the Canadiens’ goalie depth and possibly impact the sport by nurturing young talent through strong farm systems.
