Major acquisition for the Montreal Canadiens: we can confidently say that a steal is now confirmed with the selection of Joshua Roy

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David St-Jean
October 31, 2023 (11:25)

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Since being drafted by the Canadiens in the 5th round (150th overall) in 2021, here's Joshua Roy's track record:

2021-22: 119 points in 66 games with the Sherbrooke Phoenix, leading the QMJHL in scoring.

2022-23: 99 points in 55 games with the Sherbrooke Phoenix, winning a gold medal at the World Junior Championship.

2023-24: His first season as a pro with the Laval Rocket - 12 points in seven games.

And his success continues. He is simply dominant. He remains in the top 5 among the best QMJHL forwards, and now, he's ranked 2nd in the AHL. When a player excels in multiple different leagues, it's not a coincidence. His draft position is turning into a real steal.

If we were to redo the 2021 draft today, not only would Roy be chosen in the first round, but he would undoubtedly be in the top 10.

"The Beauce Sniper has collected 11 points in his first five games in the AHL, which is impressive in itself. However, when you take a closer look at his work with the Laval Rocket, the way Roy has produced these points is also very encouraging." - Marc Dumont

When you look at advanced statistics from the PNHLe, Roy ranks at the top ahead of some big names among prospects. Even Matvei Michkov can't outdo him, and he's having quite a season in the KHL once again.

If Roy continues on this trajectory, he could eventually dominate in the NHL as well, but let's give him the time to continue his development without rushing him. For once, the Canadiens are making the right decisions with a young player, and it's paying off.