Hunter Shepard Brings Calder Cup Pedigree to Laval Rocket After Trade
Goaltender Hunter Shepard, a two-time AHL champion, has joined the Laval Rocket following a recent trade from the Belleville Senators, potentially becoming a key asset in the team's pursuit of the Calder Cup. Despite being a 30-year-old prospect in the Montreal Canadiens' organization, Shepard remains optimistic about his new opportunity.
A New Chapter in Laval
Shepard was acquired by the Rocket on March 13, along with forward Jake Chiasson, in exchange for forward Riley Kidney. While Chiasson was assigned to the ECHL's Trois-Rivières Lions, Shepard was immediately sent to Laval, where he has served as Kaapo Kahkonen's backup, awaiting his debut. In a recent practice at Place Bell, Shepard expressed his determination to make the most of this new chapter.
"It's whatever you make of it. That's what I've learned in my career," Shepard said. "You don't know what's going to happen tomorrow or next week or next month. A lot of that is out of your control. You can make the most of an opportunity and it still might not work out for you. Just try to put yourself in position to get the most out of your situation."
Proven Championship Experience
Shepard brings a wealth of winning experience to the Rocket, having secured consecutive AHL titles with the Hershey Bears in 2023 and 2024. He was named the playoffs' most valuable player during the first championship run, highlighting his clutch performance under pressure. However, his path to the NHL has been unconventional; undrafted out of Cohasset, Minnesota, he has played six career NHL games, five with the Washington Capitals, posting a 2-3-1 record, a 3.87 goals-against average, and an .863 save percentage.
This season, in 15 AHL games with Belleville, Shepard recorded a 6-7-2 record, a 3.65 GAA, and an .885 save percentage. The trade marks the first of his professional career, adding a new dynamic to his journey.
Integrating into a Winning Culture
Laval head coach Pascal Vincent acknowledged Shepard's background, noting his familiarity from past matchups. "I know of (Shepard) because we've played against him," Vincent said. "He had a great team (in Hershey) in front of him, no doubt. But he was part of it, so he has good experience. That's exciting for me. He has been around winning teams. That's always good to have that in the room."
Shepard emphasized his eagerness to contribute to the Rocket's success, particularly in a supportive hockey market like Laval. "I'll try to make the most of it," he stated. "I'm in Laval now. I loved playing in Hershey. This is a big hockey market that gets a lot of support. They're trying to put a team together that wins every year."
Playoff Implications and Team Dynamics
The Rocket, currently first in the North Division with a 39-19-5 record, has already clinched a playoff berth. With nine regular-season games remaining, Laval holds a two-point lead over the Syracuse Crunch, who have a game in hand. Shepard's experience could prove invaluable as the team navigates the postseason, especially with rookies Jakub Dobes and Jacob Fowler likely handling netminding duties for the Canadiens, and veteran Samuel Montembeault no longer dressing for games.
Shepard reflected on his career trajectory and the trade's timing. "At my age, I've definitely done a lot of things I didn't think I was going to do," he said. "I got to play a few games in the NHL, and have been very lucky to be on some very good teams at different levels. I think I'm lucky to be here on this team, the way they're headed."
As the Rocket prepares for upcoming matches, including a game against Utica, Shepard's integration into the lineup remains a focal point. While it's easier to incorporate a new goalie than a skater, Vincent is uncertain about Shepard's debut timing but values his championship pedigree. Shepard concluded with a team-first mindset: "I hope to help this team win the Calder Cup. I'm here to help in whatever capacity that is."
