Florian Xhekaj Called Up to NHL as Laval Rocket Secures Gritty Overtime Win

Laval Rocket forward Florian Xhekaj received an NHL call-up moments before Friday’s game. His promotion came as the team prepared to face the Belleville Senators. The Rocket then battled to a dramatic 4-3 overtime victory.This sudden roster change tested Laval’s depth. The team was already contending with other injuries. Coach Pascal Vincent had to quickly adjust his lines for the crucial divisional matchup.

Rocket Overcomes Adversity and Key Absence

Xhekaj’s call-up forced immediate lineup changes. Riley Kidney was elevated to the top line. The defensive pairings were led by Tobie Bisson and Adam Engström.According to AHL officials, the game was a physical affair from the start. The Belleville Senators struck first with an early goal. Laval responded with a tying goal from its fourth line.The Rocket’s penalty kill unit held strong against a dangerous Belleville power play. The first period ended with the teams tied 1-1. The stage was set for a back-and-forth battle.

Overtime Heroics Seal First-Place Standing

Laval surged ahead in the second period. David Reinbacher scored to give the Rocket their first lead. Belleville answered back almost immediately to tie the game again.The Rocket continued to apply heavy pressure. They outshot the Senators 15-4 in the period. Luke Tuch then scored to restore Laval’s lead after a video review.In the final minute of regulation, Belleville scored with their goalie pulled. The game went to overtime tied 3-3. Adam Engström scored the winner, keeping Laval in first place.

Team Depth Proves Crucial in Victory

The win demonstrated Laval’s resilience amid roster uncertainty. Multiple players stepped up in expanded roles. The victory maintained their position atop the AHL North Division.Xhekaj’s promotion highlights the organization’s developing talent pipeline. His physical playing style had become integral to Laval’s identity. The team now must adapt without his presence in the lineup.This victory provides momentum for the upcoming schedule. The Rocket face Belleville again in their annual Teddy Bear Toss game. Team confidence remains high despite the roster changes.

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The Laval Rocket’s ability to win despite Florian Xhekaj’s NHL call-up underscores their organizational depth and resilience. This victory solidifies their first-place standing while showcasing how prospects can rapidly develop into NHL-caliber players. The team’s next challenge will be maintaining this momentum through further roster fluctuations.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Florian Xhekaj?

Florian Xhekaj is a forward for the Laval Rocket. He received an emergency recall to the Montreal Canadiens. His physical style made him a key player in the AHL.

How did Laval win without key players?

The Rocket relied on their organizational depth. Multiple players stepped into larger roles effectively. Their defensive structure and timely scoring secured the victory.

What does this mean for the Rocket’s playoff chances?

The win maintains their first-place position in the North Division. Their ability to win despite roster changes bodes well for postseason success. Team depth becomes increasingly important as the season progresses.

Who scored the overtime winner?

Defenseman Adam Engström scored the game-winning goal in overtime. The play was set up by Laurent Dauphin and Alex Belzile. This marked Engström’s first overtime winner this season.

Will Xhekaj remain in the NHL?

His stay depends on Montreal’s roster needs and his performance. The call-up was characterized as an emergency recall. Such moves can be temporary or lead to longer NHL stays.