Rocket Notepad: Laval Signs Returning Defenseman, Lions Protected List

The Laval Rocket signed defenceman Olivier Galipeau to an AHL contract. The Trois-Rivieres Lions submitted their off-season protected list.

The Laval Rocket announced on Friday that they agreed to terms on a one-year, one-way AHL contract with Olivier Galipeau. 

In 2022-23, the defenseman scored three goals and and six assists for nine points with the Rocket. He was utilized by head coach Jean-Francois Houle in a shutdown role and on the penalty kill unit. 

Galipeau began the season with the Trois-Rivieres Lions in the ECHL before being recalled to Laval in December for the rest of the season. 

"I am really happy to be back with Laval. It's a great organization. Great fans, and the fun of playing at home is an extra bonus," said the 26-year-old in a video posted by the team on social media. 

Discussions between Galipeau and the club began right after the end of the season. In his third season with Laval, the defenceman would like to bring more leadership to his younger teammates. "I would also like to help them (the young defencemen) adjust to pro hockey. Offer them guidance, maybe help with routines and habits."

On Friday, the ECHL announced the protected list submitted by all the teams. The protected list allows the teams to retain the rights to the identified players during the off-season. 

According to the league, "Teams are allowed to protect as many players as they wish provided the players protected meet the guidelines as defined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement."

Trois-Rivieres protected 17 forwards, 13 defensemen and two goalies.

The Lions are finalists for two team awards that will be presented at the 2023 ECHL Hockey Summer Meetings. 

Trois-Rivieres received a nomination for Theme Night of the Year and Team Award of Excellence-Growth. 

The winner will be announced on June 28th during the event in Las Vegas.