Aiden Dubinsky Signs Professional Tryout with AHL’s Laval Rocket
Senior defenseman Aiden Dubinsky is officially transitioning to the professional ranks. The Laval Rocket, the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Montreal Canadiens, announced on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, that they have signed Dubinsky to a Professional Tryout (PTO) contract.
Dubinsky arrives in Quebec following a collegiate career defined by steady defensive play and academic excellence. His move to the Laval Rocket marks the beginning of his professional journey after completing his senior season with the University of Wisconsin.
Collegiate Career and Performance
Dubinsky’s final year of college hockey was spent with the Wisconsin Badgers, having transferred from Minnesota Duluth for his senior season. During his time with the Badgers, he tallied two goals and six points. He established himself as a reliable defensive presence, recording 22 blocks in the 2025-26 season, which ranked fifth on the team’s roster. His two goals also placed him fifth among Badger blueliners.
Over his entire college career, the former Bulldog assistant captain appeared in 141 games, accumulating nine goals and 40 points. He also recorded 151 career blocks and scored a power-play goal during his sophomore year.
Path to the Pros: Junior Hockey and Academics
Before entering the NCAA, the Highland Park, Illinois native developed his skills in the United States Hockey League (USHL). He played for the Omaha Lancers during the 2020-21 season and the Tri-City Storm in 2021-22.
Beyond his on-ice contributions, Dubinsky has been recognized for his performance in the classroom. He is a three-time NCHC Distinguished Scholar-Athlete and a three-time member of the NCHC Academic All-Conference Team.
Player Profile: Aiden Dubinsky
- Position: Defenseman
- Height: 6’0″ (184 cm)
- Weight: 181 lbs (82 kg)
- Shoots: Right
- Date of Birth: April 28, 2004
Key Takeaways
- Professional Debut: Dubinsky signed a PTO with the Laval Rocket on April 15, 2026.
- Organizational Tie: The Laval Rocket serve as the AHL affiliate for the Montreal Canadiens.
- College Pedigree: Played for both the University of Wisconsin and Minnesota Duluth.
- Junior Experience: Former player for the USHL’s Omaha Lancers and Tri-City Storm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Professional Tryout (PTO) contract?
A Professional Tryout is a short-term contract that allows a professional team to evaluate a player’s skills in a professional environment before committing to a longer-term standard player contract.
Which NHL team is affiliated with the Laval Rocket?
The Laval Rocket are the AHL affiliate of the Montreal Canadiens.
With his signing, Dubinsky joins a professional environment where he can leverage his defensive reliability and collegiate experience to compete for a permanent spot in the AHL.