Challenges in the Life of Patrick Roy in a Detailed Timeline

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Patrick Roy. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Patrick Roy is a Canadian professional ice hockey coach and former player, currently head coach for the New York Islanders. Renowned as "king of goaltenders" and named one of the NHL's 100 Greatest Players, he played for the Montreal Canadiens (11 years) and Colorado Avalanche (8 years), earning the nickname "Saint Patrick". Roy won four Stanley Cups, two with each team, solidifying his legacy as an iconic goaltender in NHL history.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

1989: Won the William M. Jennings Trophy and Lost Stanley Cup Final

In 1989, Patrick Roy and Brian Hayward won the William M. Jennings Trophy for the third year in a row as the Canadiens allowed the fewest goals against. The Canadiens lost to the Calgary Flames in the Stanley Cup Final.

1994: Canadiens Knocked out in First Round

In 1994, the Canadiens, as defending champions, were knocked out in the first round by the Boston Bruins. Roy played with appendicitis, missing Game 3 but returning for Game 4.

December 2, 1995: Montreal's Worst Home Game in Franchise History

On December 2, 1995, Patrick Roy played in net against the Detroit Red Wings during Montreal's worst home game in franchise history, an 11–1 loss, where he allowed nine goals on 26 shots.

December 1995: 11-1 Montreal loss to Detroit

In December 1995, the 11-1 Montreal loss to Detroit precipitated Roy's midseason trade to Colorado.

1995: Mario Tremblay Hired as Coach

In 1995, Mario Tremblay was hired as Montreal's new head coach, replacing Jacques Demers. Roy and Tremblay had a strained relationship.

1998: 1998 Winter Olympics

In 1998, Patrick Roy was the starting goaltender for Canada at the Winter Olympics, playing all six games. Canada failed to win a medal after losing to the Czech Republic in a shootout and then to Finland in the bronze medal game.

October 22, 2000: Roy Arrested for Domestic Violence

On October 22, 2000, Patrick Roy was arrested for domestic violence following an argument with his wife. He was later released on bail, and the case was eventually dismissed.

2002: Pulled After Allowing Six Goals

In 2002, Patrick Roy was pulled after allowing six goals in game seven of the Western Conference finals, a game Detroit won 7–0 to advance to the Stanley Cup Final.

January 19, 2007: Saguenay Police Investigate Roy Incident

On January 19, 2007, Saguenay Police investigated an incident involving Patrick Roy and Pierre Cardinal, the co-owner of the Chicoutimi Saguenéens, after reports surfaced that Roy threw punches at Cardinal.

January 21, 2007: Roy Addresses Media, Considers Resignation

On January 21, 2007, following a Remparts game, Roy addressed the media stating he was suffering prejudice regarding the January 19 incident. He questioned his future as head coach and co-owner of the team, even considering resigning from his duties.

March 22, 2008: Roy Involved in On-Ice Incident

On March 22, 2008, during a playoff game against the Saguenéens, Roy's son Jonathan charged towards and assaulted the opposing goaltender. Patrick Roy was later suspended for five games and fined $4,000 following an investigation by the league office.

July 2008: Jonathan Roy Charged with Assault

In late July 2008, Jonathan Roy, Patrick Roy's son, was charged with assault in Saguenay courts following an on-ice incident in March.

November 21, 2008: Frederick Roy Suspended

On November 21, 2008, Patrick Roy's son, Frederick Roy, received a 15-game suspension from the QMJHL for cross-checking an opponent in the head.

2014: Roy's Goaltender Strategy in 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs

During the 2014 Stanley Cup playoffs, Roy became known for aggressively pulling goaltender Semyon Varlamov to set up a 6-on-5, empty-net scenario. The Avalanche lost in the first round to the Minnesota Wild.

August 11, 2016: Roy Resigns as Avalanche Head Coach

On August 11, 2016, Patrick Roy stepped down as the head coach and vice-president of hockey operations for the Colorado Avalanche, citing a lack of input in personnel decisions.