The Laval Rocket are making headlines once again in the AHL playoffs, and this time it’s not just because of their impressive performance on the ice. As the team continues its push for the Calder Cup, a recent game has sparked a wave of discussion among fans, analysts, and hockey insiders. At the heart of the conversation is rising goaltender Jacob Fowler, who has been a standout for the Rocket throughout this postseason run.

But beyond the excitement of the victory, a surprising twist has emerged—one that’s left many questioning the standards and technology of the league itself. The incident has not only drawn attention to the young netminder’s resilience but has also ignited debate about fairness and professionalism at this level of hockey.

As controversy brews and opinions fly across social media, the spotlight is now firmly on both the Rocket’s playoff journey and the rules that govern crucial moments in the AHL. What happened on the ice has prompted a much larger conversation—one that could have lasting implications for the league and its future.

Stay tuned as we dive into the details and explore why this moment has everyone talking.

Photo of Jacob Fowler

Photo credit: SportsNet

Things are going very well for Pascal Vincent and the Laval Rocket in these AHL playoffs.

Last night, thanks to a solid win over the Cleveland Monsters, the Montreal Canadiens’ farm team officially advanced to the next round of the playoffs.

Jacob Fowler technically allowed just one goal in the win, but not so fast.

The only goal allowed by Jacob Fowler and the Laval Rocket absolutely should not have counted

It’s causing a bit of controversy right now, because the lack of video replay in the AHL could end up creating a major issue down the line.

“Del Bel Belluz’s goal shouldn’t have counted. Unfortunately, no video replay in the AHL. Sometimes it just doesn’t feel very professional. Even junior leagues do better”
– Anthony Marcotte, BPM Sports

I have to admit I was a bit shocked to learn this, about the lack of video review in the AHL.

Watch the footage.. there was clearly an offside on the play!

No doubt about it:

image

Sadly, it cost young Jacob Fowler another shutout, but thankfully it didn’t affect the outcome of the game too much.

To watch the full sequence, click here:

And did you know there’s no video review, even during the playoffs, in the American Hockey League?