Patrick Roy’s recent return to Denver brought back a flood of memories for the legendary goaltender. As he stepped onto the ice at Ball Arena, he couldn’t help but gaze up at his No. 33 banner hanging proudly in the rafters. The banners commemorating the Avalanche’s championships in 1996 and 2001, with Roy’s stellar performance earning him the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2001, were also a reminder of his incredible legacy.
Speaking before the game against the Islanders, Roy expressed his deep connection to both the Avalanche and the Montreal Canadiens, the two teams he holds close to his heart. He reminisced about texting Joe Sakic, the Avalanche’s general manager, to congratulate him on the team’s 2022 Stanley Cup win, a moment that filled Roy with pride. The bond he shares with the Avalanche organization and its fans is something he cherishes to this day.
Roy’s arrival in Colorado in 1995 marked the beginning of a new chapter in his storied career. After a tumultuous departure from Montreal, he quickly became a cornerstone of the Avalanche franchise. His coaching tenure in 2013-14 was particularly memorable, culminating in a Jack Adams Award for his outstanding leadership. Despite his sudden resignation in 2016, Roy’s impact on the team and its players, such as Nathan MacKinnon and Gabriel Landeskog, remains undeniable.
While Roy’s focus during his return was on the game against the Islanders, his demeanor reflected a sense of closure compared to his emotional Montreal homecoming. The Avalanche’s acknowledgment of him on the video board went unnoticed, as Roy remained laser-focused on securing a victory for his team.
As the game unfolded, Mat Barzal’s empty-net goal showcased his impressive accomplishment of scoring against all 31 NHL teams. The competitive spirit and enduring legacy of players like Roy and Barzal serve as a testament to the rich history of the sport and the indelible mark they leave on the game. In moments like these, hockey fans are reminded of the timeless bonds between players, teams, and the loyal supporters who make this sport truly special.
