Dillan Bentley Brings Size and Intelligence to Laval Rocket Roster
The Laval Rocket have bolstered their lineup with the addition of forward Dillan Bentley, who signed a two-year, one-way American Hockey League contract this week. Bentley, a 24-year-old native of Peoria, Illinois, joins the team after completing his senior season at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, where he majored in education and psychology with a minor in business.
Academic Excellence Meets Hockey Talent
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 194 pounds, Bentley brings both physical presence and intellectual curiosity to the Rocket organization. His unusual academic combination reflects a thoughtful approach to life beyond hockey, with plans to complete his business minor through two online classes in the coming months.
"All I can ask for is an opportunity—from practice every single day to finding my way into the lineup," Bentley said during a recent practice session. "No promises have been made. But the two-year contract will allow me to develop. To spend two years in one spot is big. You can see a lot of growth with the right player."
Proven Collegiate Performance
During his four seasons with the UMass Lowell River Hawks, Bentley demonstrated consistent offensive production, scoring 29 goals and adding 58 points across 121 games. His senior year was particularly impressive, as he led a struggling team with 14 goals and 25 points while serving as an alternate captain—showcasing leadership qualities that caught the attention of professional scouts.
Rocket head coach Pascal Vincent expressed enthusiasm about the new acquisition: "I know we liked him enough to sign him. That's a good sign. He has a big body. I like his mechanics. He's smart and excited to be here."
Strategic Organizational Moves
Bentley's signing comes as part of broader roster adjustments for the Rocket, who recently secured a North Division playoff berth with a 5-1 victory over Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. The organization has been active in reshaping its lineup, also adding:
- Defenceman Luke Mittelstadt on a two-year entry-level contract
- Goaltender Hunter Shepard and forward Jake Chiasson via trade with Belleville
These moves come as Laval (38-19-5) sits first in their division, having won four of their last five contests. Vincent acknowledged the delicate balance between maintaining current momentum and integrating new talent: "With Laval first in its division and having won four of its last five, I'm understandably reluctant to tinker with my lineup."
Transition to Professional Hockey
Bentley recognizes the differences between collegiate and professional hockey environments. "When you're at school, you have to balance education with hockey," he explained. "The practices are hard at school, from Monday to Thursday. The whole week, you're building up to an opponent you'll play twice over the weekend. In pro, you might be playing on Wednesday and the weekend. You're not thinking about your performance the past weekend. You're thinking about what's coming up."
The forward has already established connections within the organization, maintaining contact this season with Laval captain Lucas Condotta—another UMass Lowell alumnus who never actually played alongside Bentley during their collegiate careers.
Future Aspirations
Looking beyond his playing days, Bentley envisions a future in coaching or teaching. "I enjoy helping people," he shared. "Any time I can have an impact on someone." This perspective aligns with his academic background and suggests a player who thinks deeply about his role both on and off the ice.
As the Rocket prepare for their final 10 regular-season games, beginning with a Friday matchup against Springfield, Bentley represents both immediate depth and long-term potential for an organization that values both physical tools and hockey intelligence.
