Swedish defenceman Adam Engstrom is back with the AHL's Laval Rocket, but his sights remain firmly set on a permanent return to the Montreal Canadiens. The 22-year-old blue-liner recently concluded an 11-game audition with the NHL club, an experience he believes proved he belongs at hockey's highest level.
Making the Most of an NHL Opportunity
Engstrom's promotion to Montreal came on November 23, following a standout performance for Laval that included a goal and four assists in a single game. Paired primarily with Arber Xhekaj, Engstrom held his own over his 11 appearances, posting a plus-3 rating while focusing on sound defensive play. Although he didn't record a point, his reliable presence did not go unnoticed.
"I tried to take advantage of every game and every practice I got up there," Engstrom stated after a practice in Laval. "The experience was amazing... I feel like I played good defence in Montreal and didn't give up much."
His stint ended on January 8 when the Canadiens needed to make room for the returning Kaiden Guhle, who had missed 39 games with an injury. Engstrom acknowledged he saw the move coming but is using the demotion as motivation.
Development and Patience in Laval
Now back with the Rocket, Engstrom's task is to continue his development and wait for the next opportunity. The path back to Montreal is crowded, with a deep pool of defensive talent on the Canadiens' roster. Engstrom may also be competing for future call-ups with fellow prospect David Reinbacher, a former first-round pick.
Laval head coach Pascal Vincent, who has overseen Engstrom's transition to North American pro hockey, praised the defenceman's attitude. "You'd think going from the NHL to the AHL would be easier, but that's not always the case," Vincent noted. "The NHL is faster and stronger. The execution is less chaotic... We're going to get him back there."
Engstrom's AHL numbers support his case. In 23 games this season, he has compiled 6 goals and 20 points, along with a plus-10 rating. He has already matched his goal total from his entire 66-game rookie campaign last season.
Focusing on What He Can Control
For now, Engstrom understands that his immediate future lies in dominating the AHL. He recorded a goal and an assist in two games last weekend and added two more assists in a midweek contest. His focus is on consistency and refining the two-way game that earned him his first NHL look.
"I want to be a regular in the NHL and I feel like I can be one," Engstrom asserted. "I'll keep working every day and we'll see what happens. It's all about trying to find my confidence again and believing in yourself. You got to the NHL because of something. Find that again."
His message from Canadiens coach Martin St. Louis upon returning to Laval was simple: keep playing your game. As Engstrom continues to log major minutes for the Rocket, he waits for the inevitable injury or trade that could crack open a spot on Montreal's packed blue line, ready to prove his first call-up was no fluke.
