Rochester Americans 2 (OT), Laval Rocket 1
Wednesday, November 20, 2024 – Place Bell
In a game packed with grit, goaltending brilliance, and timely scoring, the Rochester Americans emerged victorious in overtime, defeating the Laval Rocket 2-1 at Place Bell. Devon Levi stole the spotlight with a masterclass performance in net, while Lukas Rousek delivered the decisive blow in extra time.
First Period: Fireworks and Fast Responses
The first period offered plenty of action as both teams traded goals in rapid succession. The Laval Rocket struck first at 13:05, with Florian Xhekaj lighting the lamp shorthanded. Xhekaj’s third goal of the season came courtesy of a perfect feed from Xavier Simoneau, leaving the Amerks momentarily stunned.
However, the response from Rochester was immediate. Just 41 seconds later, while still on the power play, Brett Murray fired home his fourth goal of the season to even the score. The tally came off pinpoint assists from Josh Dunne and Zach Metsa, the latter earning his 10th helper of the season. It was a picture-perfect response that set the tone for the rest of the game.
Second and Third Periods: Defensive Grit
The second and third periods saw both teams locked in a defensive battle, with neither able to break through. Rochester’s penalty kill unit, spearheaded by Levi’s calm presence in goal, neutralized Laval’s five power-play chances, including several moments of heavy pressure in the second period.
Despite outshooting Laval 27-18 through regulation, the Amerks couldn’t solve Rocket netminder Jakub Dobeš, who matched Levi save for save. The tension built as both teams headed into overtime, knowing a single mistake could decide the game.
Overtime: Rousek Seals the Deal
The Amerks didn’t take long to make their mark in the extra frame. At 4:16 of overtime, Lukas Rousek played the hero, snapping a precise shot past Dobeš to clinch the victory. Rousek’s second goal of the season was set up beautifully by Ty Tullio, who delivered a slick feed to spring the game-winner. The Amerks’ bench erupted as Rousek’s goal capped off an intense night of hockey.
The Levi Factor
While Rousek got the glory for the winner, Devon Levi was the backbone of the victory. Making 26 saves on 27 shots in his first start of the season, Levi displayed the composure and poise that has made him one of the most promising goaltenders in the organization. Whether it was denying a flurry of shots during a second-period penalty kill or calmly handling traffic in front of the crease, Levi was the rock Rochester needed.
Key Stats and Takeaways
- Devon Levi’s Brilliance: Levi’s 26 saves were crucial, particularly during critical penalty kills and scrambles in front of the net.
- Power Play Impact: Rochester capitalized on one of their four power-play opportunities, with Brett Murray’s goal providing early momentum.
- Rousek’s Clutch Finish: Lukas Rousek showcased his knack for big moments with a confident overtime winner.
- Metsa’s Playmaking: Zach Metsa’s 10th assist of the season continues to underscore his value as a playmaker from the blue line.
Final Game Stats
- Shots on Goal: Rochester 39, Laval 27
- Power Play: Rochester 1/4, Laval 0/5
The Amerks head home brimming with confidence after their thrilling win in Laval. With Levi anchoring the crease and clutch performances coming from up and down the lineup, Rochester is proving to be a formidable force early in the season.