The Laval Rocket have just made a move that’s turning heads across the hockey world, and it’s not just about adding another name to the roster.

With the signing of veteran defenseman Josiah Didier to a professional tryout contract, the organization is sending a clear message—but what exactly are they hoping to accomplish? At 32, Didier brings a wealth of experience and a reputation as a battle-tested leader, yet his journey with the Montreal Canadiens’ system has been anything but ordinary.

Fans familiar with Didier’s history may recall his earlier stints in the organization, but few could have predicted this latest twist. Why bring back a player who’s never skated in the NHL, especially now? The answer might surprise you, especially given the current challenges facing the Rocket’s blue line. Missing several key defensemen, the team is looking for stability, but Didier’s impact could go far beyond simply filling a gap.

As excitement builds and supporters weigh in on the decision, one question remains: Will Didier’s leadership and defensive reliability be enough to change the course of the season? Or is there more to this story than meets the eye? Dive deeper to uncover the real reasons behind this intriguing move.

Veteran defenseman Josiah Didier

Photo credit: All Habs / NHL

The Laval Rocket added a lot of toughness and experience to its blue line by announcing the signing of a professional tryout contract with veteran defenseman Josiah Didier.

At 32 years old, Didier is not unknown to the fans and organization of the Montreal Canadiens.

Indeed, he was drafted by the Canadiens in 2011, 97th overall, before wearing the colors of the Hamilton Bulldogs and the St. John’s IceCaps between 2014 and 2017.

A well-known veteran in the American League

Josiah Didier has nearly 500 games of experience in the American Hockey League and recently served as captain for the Providence Bruins and the Grand Rapids Griffins.

Last year, he played 58 games with Grand Rapids, recording two goals and six assists, in addition to a +10 plus-minus rating.

According to an article from RDS, this decision by the Rocket comes in a context where the Canadiens’ farm club is missing several key defensemen, including David Reinbacher, William Trudeau, and Josh Jacobs, all absent at the start of this season.

“The Laval Rocket signed defenseman Josiah Didier to a professional tryout contract”

– Rocket Laval

Some Rocket fans are already very happy:

“Nice pickup at least in the past he was good defensively, was a fan since we drafted him back in 2011 out of the USHL.”

– Serenity Hockey

Even though he has never played in the NHL, his reputation as an exemplary teammate and reliable player could quickly allow him to secure a permanent spot in the organization.

I also think he will be able to help some young players develop, including Reinbacher, of course.

In my opinion, he is the kind of veteran who can make a real difference on a developing team like the Rocket.