Jacob Fowler Nears Return to Laval Rocket After Virus, Dauphin Back Wednesday

Laval Rocket goaltender Jacob Fowler is nearing a return to the lineup after a two-week absence due to a virus, according to Rocket head coach Jean-François Houle. Fowler participated in practice before the rest of the team on Tuesday, alongside forward Florian Xhekaj, who was also sidelined by illness.

While Fowler is likely to be a scratch for Wednesday’s game against the Syracuse Crunch, he could be available for the Rocket’s games against the Rochester Americans on Friday and Saturday. “We’re hopeful for the weekend,” Houle stated. “We’re going to be cautious. He lost weight and spent time away from the ice. He was worn down. It’s not a complicated situation, it’s just a matter of time and patience.”

Fowler’s last start was on February 16th. The 21-year-old, drafted 69th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2023, has quickly become a key prospect for the organization. He was briefly promoted to the Canadiens in December, appearing in 10 NHL games. He subsequently returned to the Rocket, adjusting to the AHL’s style of play after his time in the NHL.

Veteran forward Laurent Dauphin will also return to the Laval lineup Wednesday night after missing the previous three games with an upper-body injury. Dauphin currently has 56 points this season, one behind Jakob Pelletier of the Syracuse Crunch for the league lead in scoring.

The Laval Rocket are scheduled to face the Rochester Americans on Friday, March 6th and Saturday, March 7th. A game between the two teams was previously played on May 16, 2025, with details available on the AHL website.

The Rocket’s strength of roster allows for veteran Kaapo Kähkönen to serve as a backup option to Fowler, demonstrating the depth of talent within the organization. Fowler’s performance has been strong enough to contend for the future starting goaltender position with the Montreal Canadiens.