Just days before the puck drops on a new season, the Laval Rocket made a bold move that’s turning heads across Quebec and beyond.

In a surprising twist, local defenseman Jacob Dion, once overlooked in the NHL draft, has been handed a professional tryout contract—an opportunity that could dramatically reshape both his career and the Rocket’s defensive depth. Hailing from Stoke in the Estrie region, Dion’s journey from junior hockey to this pivotal moment is filled with quiet determination, untold stories, and a dash of hometown pride.

But what prompted the organization to take this last-minute gamble? Is it simply a response to recent injuries, or does Dion possess a hidden quality that could make him the next breakout star? Scouting reports hint at a player with remarkable hockey IQ and nerves of steel, yet his true potential remains shrouded in mystery.

As fans buzz with excitement over the signing, questions linger about how Dion will fit into a lineup already welcoming new faces like Florian Xhekaj and Kaapo Kahkonen.

Is Jacob Dion the missing piece for the Rocket’s blue line? Or is there something more behind this intriguing decision? Dive deeper to discover the motivations, hopes, and possible surprises awaiting Laval as the season begins.

Photo of Defenseman Jacob Dion

Photo credit: All Habs / NHL

A few days before the start of the season, the Laval Rocket decided to add a new face to its defensive lineup by signing Quebec native Jacob Dion to a professional tryout contract.

This last-minute decision has not gone unnoticed within the Montreal Canadiens organization. Every time a local talent is signed, the fans always pay a little more attention!

The defenseman, a native of Stoke in the Estrie region, saw his dream come true this week when he officially received an invitation from the Canadiens’ farm team.

Dion, who was never drafted into the NHL, is getting a great opportunity to prove himself in a professional environment.

The Laval Rocket grants a professional tryout contract to Jacob Dion

The organization confirmed the news through its official account:

“The Laval Rocket signed defenseman Jacob Dion to a professional tryout contract.” – Laval Rocket

According to several observers, this addition can be explained by the team’s need to add depth to its blue line, especially with a few recent injuries among defensemen.

Jacob Dion, according to what can be read in various scouting reports, is a left-shot defenseman known for his hockey IQ and composure under pressure. He spent 3 seasons with the Sherbrooke Phoenix in the QMJHL, followed by 3 seasons with the University of Moncton.

In 2023-2024, he collected 49 points in 68 games, demonstrating his ability to contribute offensively despite his small stature.

The Laval Rocket also had the pleasure of welcoming Florian Xhekaj and Kaapo Kahkonen, following the Canadiens’ final cuts.

I personally believe that this signing is excellent news for the Rocket, which gains a reliable defenseman who is above all motivated to prove he belongs at the professional level.