Nov 22, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens forward Florian Xhekaj (63) skates a rookie lap during the warmup before the game against the Toronto Maple Leafs at the Bell Centre. | Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
The Laval Rocket continue to build momentum toward the AHL playoffs, with several Montreal Canadiens prospects showing encouraging development. We discuss the recent performances from Filip Mesar, Joshua Roy, Florian Xhekaj, David Reinbacher, and Owen Beck.
Mesar has been used on the second line and has made the most out of the opportunity. “We’re seeing a high level of compete from Mesar right now,” Will Shoukri says. “This week specifically, I thought the hustle was really there. We’re seeing him play a physical game to a degree. We’re seeing him hustle on the backcheck,” noting that these improvements could signal an upward trajectory ahead of the playoffs.
“The Condotta, Farrell, and Roy line is technically their third line, but matchup-wise they’re using it almost like a top defensive line right now.” William explains. While the scoring has slowed in recent games, Roy’s adaptability has stood out. “By being placed alongside Condotta, he’s starting to play a two-way role. And this isn’t really something we’ve seen from Joshua Roy.”
Xhekaj’s mix of attributes makes him particularly unique: “A player who’s 6-foot-4, skates well for his size, throws the body, has the offensive ability to score goals and make passes, and is willing to drop the gloves at all times. That’s a unicorn. I still think Xhekaj might be the most interesting prospect on the Laval Rocket. A prospect who can make so many different kinds of impact on the game. He should be in a Montreal lineup for years to come.”
On the blue line, David Reinbacher has taken on a larger role with Adam Engström sidelined, and his physical presence has begun to increase. Will mentions that there is “improvement in his net-front presence. He’s hitting more… there are more little cross-checks in front of the net.” The added edge could be an important step in Reinbacher’s development. “He’s tougher to play against over the last two weeks, and it is something that will be good come the playoffs.”
Beck’s role has expanded in recent games. “He’s commanding that second line, and the line as a whole is more than a point per game over the last five games. He’s projecting to look like a Jake Evans kind of player. And if you can get that with the 33rd-overall pick, then it’s a win.”
With Engström’s return, and the potential of adding Bryce Pickford (and potentially Vinzenz Rohrer) for a playoff run, things are looking good for the Rocket and the Canadiens’ pipeline, which will add playoff experience to their expanding skill set.