"Jean-François Houle has done an excellent job as head coach of the Laval Rocket since his hiring in 2021. His team and he have demonstrated their ability to balance team performance and player development, establishing both a competitive environment and an ideal one for the growth of our prospects. The team has made the playoffs twice in three years, including a run to the Calder Cup semifinals in 2021-2022.
Jean-François and his team have done a very good job preparing many players for the transition to the National Hockey League during this period. His attention to detail and dedication to his profession, combined with over 20 years of experience as a coach in four different leagues, make Houle the ideal person for the Laval Rocket and the Montreal Canadiens. Playing in the AHL represents a crucial step in the development of many future NHL players, and we are confident that Jean-François is the right person to continue overseeing this process."
- John Sedgwick, General Manager of the Laval Rocket