Amerks vs. Rocket Preview
The Rochester Americans (7-5-2-0) are looking to hit the reset button as they take on the Laval Rocket (12-2-0-0) tonight at Place Bell. It’s a matchup that pits a slumping Rochester squad against an unstoppable Laval team at the top of the AHL standings and undefeated at home.
The Amerks have dropped their last four games, including two losses to Laval last week, and they’ll need to find answers quickly if they hope to turn things around against a red-hot Rocket team.
Devon Levi Returns to Montreal
Devon Levi is set to make his first AHL start of the season after being reassigned from the Buffalo Sabres. The Montreal native is poised to return to the crease at Place Bell, a venue where he’s experienced success in the past. Levi’s performance during his rookie campaign last year remains one of the highlights of Rochester’s season.
Levi demonstrated his ability to lead with a 16-6-4 record and a .927 save percentage, emerging as one of the AHL’s top goaltenders. His return provides the Amerks with a much-needed boost in net, particularly against a team as potent as Laval.
The matchup also offers Levi a chance to showcase his skills in his hometown. With his quick reflexes and ability to read plays, Levi has proven to be a stabilizing force for Rochester, especially during challenging stretches like this one.
The Laval Juggernaut
Laval has been the AHL’s most consistent team this season. The Rocket’s .857 points percentage and perfect 6-0-0-0 home record highlight their dominance. Even after an eight-game win streak was snapped earlier this month, Laval quickly regrouped with three straight victories, including a pair of wins over the Amerks.
The Rocket’s depth has been a key factor. Players like Joshua Roy and Logan Mailloux continue to make significant contributions, while Mailloux’s overtime winner last week showcased Laval’s ability to deliver in high-pressure moments. Laval’s goaltenders, Jakub Dobeš and Connor Hughes, have been equally impressive, combining for 12 wins and providing stability in the crease.
Amerks’ Struggles and a Key Absence
Rochester has been struggling offensively recently, scoring just five goals in its last four games. The team will be without leading scorer Isak Rosen, who was called up by the Sabres earlier this week. His absence leaves a gap in production that others will need to fill.
Mason Jobst and Kale Clague are among the players who could step up. Jobst has shown consistency, while Clague’s offensive contributions from the blue line could be a difference-maker. The team must focus on generating quality chances and converting on opportunities to succeed against Laval’s strong defensive structure.
Rochester also looks to improve in other areas, such as puck battles and overall team cohesion. A more disciplined and aggressive approach will be necessary to counter Laval’s balanced attack.
What’s at Stake
Laval holds an eight-point advantage over Rochester in the North Division standings, with the Amerks currently sitting in third place. A win tonight would halt Rochester’s slide and signal that they can compete with one of the league’s top teams.
Historically, Rochester has been competitive at Place Bell, earning points in 16 of their 22 visits since Laval joined the league. The Amerks will need to lean on that history, combined with strong goaltending and timely scoring, to earn a crucial victory.
How to Watch
The puck drops at 7:00 PM, and fans can catch the action on AHLTV or listen live on The Fan Rochester.
Can Rochester hand Laval its first home loss of the season? The stage is set for a thrilling showdown between two North Division rivals.