As the curtain falls on another season for the Laval Rocket, attention quickly shifts from the ice to the future of several key players within the Montreal Canadiens organization. Among the names drawing the most intrigue is forward Alex Barré-Boulet, whose recent comments have sparked a wave of speculation and curiosity throughout the hockey community. While many of his teammates expressed a clear desire to return and continue their journey in Laval, Barré-Boulet’s stance was refreshingly candid and unmistakably ambitious.

His statements following the team’s playoff exit have left fans and analysts alike wondering what lies ahead for the talented forward. Barré-Boulet, who has consistently dominated at the AHL level but struggled to secure a permanent NHL role, made it clear that his priority remains achieving his dream of becoming a regular in the world’s top hockey league. For him, the next chapter may not necessarily unfold in Montreal—or even within the Canadiens’ system.

With his future now shrouded in uncertainty and the possibility of a fresh start looming, all eyes are on Barré-Boulet as he weighs his options. The coming weeks promise to be pivotal, not only for his career but also for the Canadiens’ organizational depth moving forward.

Sep 23, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens forward Alex Barre-Boulet (27) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against the Philadelphia Flyers during the third period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

We got some interesting statements after the Laval Rocket’s elimination from players still under contract with the Montreal Canadiens.

One of the more notable ones came from forward Alex Barré-Boulet.

While most players clearly expressed interest in returning to Laval next season, Barré-Boulet stated that he’s ready to pack his bags and leave the organization immediately if a better opportunity arises elsewhere.

What does a better opportunity mean for him?

It’s clearly a new shot at establishing himself as a full-time NHL player!

That’s his ultimate goal, and you absolutely can’t blame him for not wanting to give up on his dream of becoming a regular in the NHL.

Alex Barré-Boulet wants to play for an organization that will give him a chance to become an NHL player, whether it’s in Montreal or elsewhere

Check out the post from the excellent Anthony Marcotte on the topic:

“Alex Barré-Boulet still has the dream of playing in the NHL. He made it clear that this dream takes priority over the idea of returning to Laval at all costs next season.

It would be very surprising to see him back, if you ask me.”

– Anthony Marcotte on ABB

His last sentence says it all.

“It would be very surprising to see him back, if you ask me.”

Barré-Boulet is exactly the type of player who’s right on the edge.

He’s too good for the American Hockey League but seems to be missing just a little something to become a full-time NHLer.

For his full media availability, click here:

This will be a situation to watch in the coming weeks.

Now 28 years old, the 5-foot-10, 178-pound forward tallied 63 points in 64 games this season with the Laval Rocket, including 22 goals.

He registered no points in 2 games with the Montreal Canadiens.

What’s your prediction in this case?