For Laval Rocket defenseman Marc Del Gaizo, the pursuit of a full-time NHL position with the Montreal Canadiens is a journey defined by patience and perseverance. The 26-year-old from Basking Ridge, New Jersey, has been recalled by the Canadiens three times this season, yet has watched from the sidelines as a healthy scratch for six consecutive games.
The Road Warrior's Routine
Del Gaizo's season has become a familiar pattern of transitions between the AHL and NHL. Most recently, he joined the Canadiens in Columbus, Ohio, for their Monday matchup against the Blue Jackets, only to be reassigned to Laval by Tuesday. He was back in the Rocket lineup by Wednesday, partnering with Adam Engstrom in a 3-2 loss to Syracuse.
The constant travel doesn't dampen his spirits. "I'm kind of knocking on the door to play up top," Del Gaizo shared after a recent practice at Place Bell. "You always want to be in the NHL. You do what they ask you to do—whether it's to take warm-ups, not play, play, skate in the morning, not skate or work out."
Overcoming Physical Limitations
Standing at 5-foot-10 and 193 pounds, Del Gaizo understands he doesn't possess the prototypical size of an NHL defenseman. This reality has shaped his entire career approach. "I was always undersized," he acknowledged. "Everyone has kind of written me off. I went to college because I wasn't drafted in the OHL."
Rather than relying on physical presence, Del Gaizo has built his game around exceptional skating ability, puck-moving skills, and hockey intelligence. These attributes caught the attention of the Nashville Predators, who selected him in the fourth round (109th overall) of the 2019 NHL Entry Draft.
His professional resume includes 46 games with Nashville last season, where he recorded two goals and nine points. This experience, combined with his NCAA championship victory with UMass-Amherst in 2021, has prepared him for the challenges of professional hockey.
Finding Fit in the Canadiens Organization
When Del Gaizo signed a one-year, two-way contract with Montreal on July 2, the decision was strategic. After spending portions of last season living out of hotels while playing for Milwaukee in the AHL, he specifically sought an organization where the NHL club and its affiliate were within driving distance.
His commitment to the Canadiens runs deep. "I think they have something special in Montreal," Del Gaizo expressed. "I want to be a part of it in any way I can, whether it's playing a handful of games or a lot of games. Whatever it is."
Rocket head coach Pascal Vincent recognizes the value Del Gaizo brings to the organization. "I was excited for the organization because he's a guy that can play in the NHL," Vincent stated. "He's a real mature man. A good pro. He knows the role. He knows what it takes and he knows who he is."
With the Canadiens currently carrying six healthy defensemen, opportunities may arise for Del Gaizo to spell players like Arber Xhekaj or Jayden Struble. His performance with Laval—registering four assists in 12 games—demonstrates his readiness for the next level.
As the Rocket continue their strong start to the season, sitting in a three-way tie for first place in the North Division with a 10-6 record, Del Gaizo remains focused on his ultimate goal. His journey serves as a testament to the determination required to overcome physical limitations through skill, intelligence, and unwavering work ethic.
