Anaheim | After six seasons in the West, Frédéric Allard has a chance to return home. Home is Quebec and the organization of the Montreal Canadiens.
Allard was acquired from the Los Angeles Kings for the services of forward Nate Schnarr and will join Laval Rocket in a few days.
At the time of the trade, he was in San Jose when his team, the Ontario Reign, was scheduled to take on the Barracudas tonight. He also gave his first impressions live from the airport.
“I am very happy to return to Montreal. This is a situation that I did not expect, stressed Frédéric Allard. It’s a great opportunity, especially in Montreal.
“I know there are a lot of injuries and they’ve been looking for defenders. Things didn’t go the way I wanted in Los Angeles. I had in mind that a transaction might take place.
“Helping the rocket and getting ready for the next level is very exciting.”
Allard describes himself as a defender capable of playing 200 feet. He is comfortable on both offense and defense.
“My greatest strength is my view of the game. I’m also good at moving the puck.”
Good words for Houle
Allard has heard good words about head coach Jean-François Houle.
“I only know him by name,” said the former Chicoutimi Saguenéens. I’ve only heard good things about him. In Ontario I played with Tobie Paquette-Bisson, one of his former players.
“In the summer I train with Alex Belzile and Anthony Richard.”
Allard will give a boost to a defense that was lacking in right-handers. His experience will be an important consideration as Rocket is involved in a playoff race.
Like the NHL
The Rocket has an enviable reputation in the American League. Place Bell is a difficult location for opposing teams.
“I get goosebumps just thinking about playing at Laval,” said Allard. Our Captain TJ Tynan went to the All Star Game and told me Montreal was crazy!
“It’s an organization on a different level. Comparable to the NHL.
Due to Justin Barron’s injury, we initially thought he would have a chance to wear the Canadiens’ uniform for tonight’s game against the Anaheim Ducks. This premiere will have to wait.