The Rocket finally lost their first game the next night in a 5-1 decision against the Devils.
IN NUMBERS
Winning smiles
Laval players have consistently expressed their pleasure with their new digs and the atmosphere they're treated to on home ice. But what can really make it or break it is what happens behind closed doors, and in the early goings there, the reviews are spectacular.
"So far, it's been awesome. The fact that the locker room, the building, the coaching staff, the players - everything together makes it really fun to come to the rink. I've missed that," confided defenseman Eric Gelinas, who split last season between the Colorado Avalanche and their AHL affiliate, the San Antonio Rampage. "Player-wise, everyone is really cool to chat with, everyone gets along and the team is good. It's fun to come and win some games."
Centerman Daniel Audette concurs that the team is gelling well as of yet.
"The guys are starting to really get along," the 21-year-old confirmed. "We're developing a good chemistry. I think that's the most important thing when starting the season."
Close to home
Being so close to the big club has been a boon for the players in terms of what's available to them resource-wise.
"We have our skills coach, "Bordy" [Sebastien Bordeleau] around way more. He lives right here and he's around almost every day, watching video with us too," explained German-born forward Markus Eisenschmid. "Management is here all the time. Everyone is watching the game. You get feedback way more often. There are way more people watching you. It's definitely better for your development."