Just when it seemed the Montreal Canadiens’ organization had settled into the rhythm of a new season, a sudden announcement has sent shockwaves through the fanbase.

The Laval Rocket, already grappling with a crippling string of injuries on defense, has made a surprise move that few saw coming. Out of nowhere, a familiar name has resurfaced—one that’s bound to spark memories and speculation among longtime followers. Josiah Didier, once a draft pick of the Canadiens, is making a dramatic return to the organization under extraordinary circumstances.

The news broke late, catching many off guard as the Rocket scrambled to fill the gaping holes left by sidelined players like David Reinbacher, William Trudeau, and Joshua Jacobs.

Didier, a seasoned AHL veteran with nearly 500 games to his name and a reputation for toughness, now finds himself thrust back into the spotlight. But what does this unexpected signing really mean for Laval’s season, and could Didier’s presence signal something bigger behind the scenes?

With his imposing size, gritty style, and a past that ties him closely to the Canadiens, Didier’s return raises more questions than answers. Don’t miss the full story behind this intriguing move and what it could mean for the future.

Photo of Josiah Didier

Photo credit: Habsfanatics/NHL

We have a last-minute announcement within the Montreal Canadiens organization, due to the numerous injuries with the Laval Rocket.

A new name has arrived within the organization – and he’s actually somewhat of a familiar face!

The Laval Rocket has just announced the acquisition (via a professional tryout contract) of defenseman Josiah Didier.

Signing of Josiah Didier for the Montreal Canadiens

He will help out Pascal Vincent’s squad for the time being, but he’ll certainly be trying to establish himself here for good.

“The Laval Rocket signed defenseman Josiah Didier to a professional tryout contract.”

– Laval Rocket

As the excellent Anthony Marcotte (from BPM Sports) mentioned, this had become a necessity since the Laval Rocket’s defense is already heavily impacted by injuries early in this young season.

David Reinbacher, William Trudeau, and Joshua Jacobs are all currently out.

“The Rocket’s defense is banged up to start the season. Reinbacher, Trudeau, and Jacobs are all out with injuries. They’re bringing back an experienced player with nearly 500 AHL games under his belt, a 4th-round pick by the Canadiens in 2011.”

– Anthony Marcotte

Didier was actually a 4th-round pick of the Montreal Canadiens in 2011 (97th overall), which makes this quite an incredible return.

Didier is a 6-foot-3, 225-pound right-handed defenseman, 32 years old, who recorded 8 points in 58 games last season with the Detroit Red Wings’ AHL affiliate.

He is also a former member of the Boston Bruins organization and has a few hundred games of experience in the American Hockey League, so he’ll bring some solid stability.

He’ll be a name to watch over the next few weeks in Laval, as he’ll also add quite a bit of toughness to Pascal Vincent’s lineup (107 penalty minutes over the past two seasons).

To be continued!