Montreal Canadiens 2021 fifth round selection Joshua Roy has inched himself towards a permanent role with every passing shift.
The intelligence that he displays each shift is near elite, and the little plays are occurring at an increased rate. If you didn't know it, Roy has played just 17 games with the Habs, but the poise he plays with is beyond his years. The dual threat ability has fit into the Canadiens lineup like a needle in a groove.
Forcing turnovers in the neutral zone and pivoting towards the attacking zone have been his bread and butter. It's impressive at any rate, but when the competition is Roman Josi, that's a whole other level. You could see how visibly frustrated the Predators No. 1 defender got, and Roy made it seem so routine.
It is not routine to come into the league as a rookie and make Norris Trophy winning defenceman look silly. What he did after forcing the turnover is even more impressive, especially consider the score of the game and the time on the clock. The Habs were down 3-2 in need of something to happen - Roy answered forcing a turnover, then walked into the zone and sniped a wrister past Juuse Saros.
Roy knew how important the goal was, given that his usual calm, collected demeanour changed. He was pumped, and his fist bump motion after the tally told the story. Each night Roy makes smart, high IQ plays; they don't always translate, but they don't go unnoticed.
Roy is what Martin St. Louis has coined a hockey player, he doesn't play second fiddle, but is in the middle of the action constantly. A gamer in the truest sense, Roy thrives on pressure and if he is already victimizing Norris winning defenseman, I am pumped for what's to come. Before his call up, I wondered if he would be more than a top nine forward, but I am thinking there's high potential than that.
Offensively the tools are there, he is shifty both with his feet and puckhandling, and he isn't trigger shy. We have yet to see his one timer, but in junior and in Laval he showed a capability of overwhelming goaltenders with it. Oh ya, his wrist shot is pretty wicked as well.
Roy + The Habs Top Six = A Great Fit
Ottawa Senators v Montreal Canadiens / Minas Panagiotakis/GettyImages
As I said, it has been just 17 games, but the growth and ability to adapt already beg the question, what is his potential ceiling?
With the top line spoken for with 22-14-20, the focus has undoubtedly shifted to the second line. I don't think it's out of the realm of possibility that Roy takes another step next year. Kirby Dach as his centre could be a very fun duo. Whether it's Alex Newhook on the other wing or a trade acquistion it's not crazy to think Roy would be a fit on the second line.
Defensively he has proven to be cerebral and capable of playing against the NHL's elite. His transition game is lightning quick and I think it's sustainable because he does it with his brain. Never cheating for offense, Roy makes the right play, and is ready as soon as he enters the zone to make a pass or fire a shot on net.
With better linemates there will certainly be an increase in his opportunities and I suspect his confidence will grow. Dach is a play driver and an excellent passer with great vision. His ability to push back defenders with his speed will be a benefit for Roy. Roy's creativity in open space is one of his best traits, add another shooter in the mix and the second line would look pretty good.
The former fifth round pick has emerged as a draft steal, and he isn't done developing; he could become one of the Habs best forwards in his prime. I won't put a number on his potential point production, but he doesn't score by mistake or luck. He will produce and his linemates and coach will love him, because he is too talented not to.
Montreal has a good one, but just how good will he become? Your guess is as good as mine, but it will be fun to watch and find out.
