Former Montreal Canadiens forward unexpectedly announces retirement from the NHL

Laval Rocket fans have, in many ways, had a front-row seat to this hockey player that is Gabriel Bourque. For a number of years, they got the opportunity to watch him on the ice more closely than others did. Of course, the Canadiens supporters may have known Bourque; it is rather the fans of the Rocket who really got to appreciate his talent and dedication when he played with the team.

Bourque has been quite an influence on the farm team of the Canadiens. Throughout his career, he gave valuable service by stabilizing and leading. The younger players of the organization took him as one of their peers as he led them with dedication and care.

The announcement was made on CIEL FM Rivière-du-Loup: Gabriel Bourque is retiring from professional hockey. With 103 points in 413 games, he played for the Nashville Predators, Colorado Avalanche, and Winnipeg Jets in the NHL. In 364 games played in the AHL, Bourque accumulated 169 points, proving to be a skilled and reliable player at every level he was participating in.

Over the last three seasons, Bourque has added 28, 31, and 11 points in 67, 66, and 43 games, respectively, for the Rocket. Past those numbers, his leadership both on and off the ice has been instrumental to the younger talent within the organization, which was respected by the fan base and his teammates alike.

Now entering a new phase, Gabriel Bourque has already taken up a new challenge as an assistant coach with the Nordiques du College Lionel-Groulx. His retirement as a player does not mean he is stepping away from the game entirely. Best of luck to Gabriel Bourque for this new chapter as a coach, and his love for hockey remains an inspiration!