Change is in the air for the Montreal Canadiens organization, and fans are buzzing with anticipation over a series of moves that could reshape the team’s immediate future.

Just hours after one notable departure, whispers of a surprising return have begun circulating, sending shockwaves through the local hockey community. While the organization remains tight-lipped about its strategy, sources close to the Laval Rocket report a development that could have significant implications for both the team’s roster and its prospects this season.

The Canadiens have faced more than their share of adversity lately, particularly on the defensive front, with multiple injuries forcing coaches and management to make tough decisions.

As speculation grows over how the team will address these challenges, a familiar name has resurfaced—one that many fans may remember from previous standout performances, both at the junior and university levels.

But who is the mystery player making headlines in Montreal, and what does his unexpected return mean for the organization’s future? With rumors swirling and official statements offering only tantalizing hints, supporters and analysts alike are left searching for answers.

For those eager to know how this last-minute announcement could impact the Canadiens’ season, the full story promises plenty of intrigue—and perhaps a few surprises.

Photo of defenseman Jacob Dion

Photo credit: Habsfanatics/NHL

We have a last-minute announcement within the Montreal Canadiens organization.

Just hours after releasing 6-foot-4 Quebec-born goaltender Kevin Mandolese, the Laval Rocket has now announced the return of defenseman Jacob Dion to the Canadiens organization!

Defenseman Jacob Dion Signs Professional Tryout Contract With the Montreal Canadiens Organization

He will start the season with the Laval Rocket.

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

– Laval Rocket

This seems to account for the earlier move and the team’s multiple injuries.

“The Laval Rocket are having bad luck with injuries on defense.

Sidelined:
Jacobs
O’Rourke
Reinbacher
Trudeau

This will benefit guys like Wyatte Wylie, Darick Louis-Jean, and/or Jacob Dion.”

– Vincent Demuy

Jacob Dion, 23 years old, is a left-shot defenseman standing 5-foot-9 and weighing 177 pounds. He recorded 58 points, including 17 goals, in 67 games during his final QMJHL season with the Drummondville Voltigeurs.

Over the past few seasons, he has put up 22 points in 26 games, 28 points in 29 games, and 22 points in 30 games with Moncton University.

Kevin Mandolese, 25 years old, is a Quebec-born goaltender from Blainville standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 180 pounds.

He was a sixth-round pick of the Ottawa Senators in 2018 (157th overall) and has three games of NHL experience.

In his NHL career, he holds a 1-2-0 record with a 3.30 goals-against average and a strong .916 save percentage.