All Eyes on Joshua Roy: Canadiens Prospect Poised for Key Role in Laval This Season…read more…
As the 2025–26 hockey season looms, few prospects in the Montreal Canadiens system are drawing as much attention as Joshua Roy. The 22-year-old forward, drafted 150th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, has quietly but steadily climbed the ranks and now stands on the cusp of a breakout campaign. While fans and analysts debate whether he’ll see time in Montreal, the more immediate intrigue centers around his likely role with the Laval Rocket, the Habs’ AHL affiliate.
The question isn’t if Roy will make an impact this season — it’s how, where, and how soon that impact will be felt.
A Crucial Year in Development
For Roy, this year could represent a turning point. After a strong finish last season in Laval, where he tallied 36 points in 48 games, expectations have risen. His vision, hockey IQ, and offensive creativity make him a prime candidate for top-six minutes. While Montreal continues to stockpile youth in its rebuild, Laval remains a crucial development ground, and Roy is now one of its central figures.
According to Rocket head coach Jean-François Houle, Roy has taken major strides both on and off the ice.
> “Joshua’s work ethic has been outstanding. He understands what’s at stake and comes in ready to compete every day,” Houle said at a recent press availability. “He wants to be a difference-maker — and he’s becoming one.”
Versatility as a Weapon
What makes Roy especially valuable is his versatility. He can slot in at both wings, has shown an ability to adapt to different linemates, and is responsible in his own zone. This season, Laval could experiment with him in various roles: first-line winger, power play quarterback, or even penalty kill contributor.
With Laval projected to field a younger and faster team this year, Roy’s playmaking could become the spark that drives their offense. If he excels, a mid-season NHL call-up wouldn’t be surprising — especially if injuries hit Montreal’s forward core.
Competing for a Bigger Stage
The Canadiens have made no secret about their long-term focus on youth development. With names like Owen Beck, Filip Mesar, and Lane Hutson in the conversation, Roy fits neatly into that next wave of NHL hopefuls. What separates him, however, is his growing maturity and polish. He’s not just raw talent anymore — he’s a near-complete prospect who’s been through the fire of junior hockey and the grind of the AHL.
Still, nothing is guaranteed. The Canadiens have a logjam of young wingers, and cracking the NHL roster full-time will require more than potential — it will demand dominance in Laval.
> “This is my time to show I’m ready,” Roy told reporters during offseason training. “I know I have to earn it. I’m excited for the challenge.”
The Bigger Picture: Habs’ Rebuild and Roy’s Timeline
Montreal’s rebuild has entered a delicate phase. The organization is shifting from accumulating assets to seeing who can truly step into impactful NHL roles. That puts pressure on players like Roy to separate themselves. With Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton watching closely, Laval performances could directly influence the Habs’ trade deadlines, roster shuffling, and long-term planning.
If Roy can establish himself as a dominant AHL scorer early in the season, his path to the NHL — even in a bottom-six role initially — becomes much clearer. The Canadiens are no longer desperate for stop-gap veterans; they’re looking for players who can grow into the core.
Fan Expectations and Reality
Roy’s story has captured the interest of Canadiens fans for a reason. Drafted in the fifth round, he’s far from the blue-chip, top-pick narrative that often defines a franchise’s future. Yet, that underdog status only enhances his appeal. He represents hope — the kind that comes from scouting depth, smart development, and internal growth.
Habs fans, increasingly engaged with the Rocket’s games, will be eager to see if Roy can take the leap this season. Whether watching at Place Bell or following box scores and highlights, the fanbase knows what’s at stake — and they’re ready to rally behind a player who could be the next gem from the pipeline.
Final Thoughts
As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on Joshua Roy. While a full-time NHL role may still be just out of reach, his expected importance to the Laval Rocket can’t be overstated. In a season where the Canadiens are hoping to see prospects take control of their futures, Roy is as well-positioned as anyone to make the leap.
Whether as a scoring leader in Laval, a utility call-up in Montreal, or an emerging name on the national prospect radar, Roy’s 2025–26 season is one that fans, coaches, and management will be watching closely.
If he rises to the occasion — and all signs suggest he might — this could be the year Joshua Roy turns potential into reality.
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