The journey from promising prospect to NHL mainstay is rarely a straight line, and for Montreal Canadiens forward Joshua Roy, the path has been filled with unexpected twists and tough decisions. Once touted as a near-lock to claim a permanent spot on the Canadiens’ roster, Roy’s 2024-25 season instead became a test of patience and resilience.

Despite high hopes and impressive performances in the minors, he found himself on the outside looking in, playing just a handful of games in Montreal while watching others seize the opportunities he had worked so hard for. Now, as whispers of potential trade demands begin to circulate, the spotlight once again shines on the young winger’s future in the organization.

With his self-imposed deadline fast approaching and his determination to prove himself at the highest level stronger than ever, Roy faces a pivotal offseason—one that could define the next chapter of his career and reshape the Canadiens’ plans moving forward. As fans and analysts alike speculate about what lies ahead, one thing is certain: Joshua Roy’s story is far from over, and the stakes have never been higher.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Montreal Canadiens forward Joshua Roy likely didn’t have the season he was hoping for.

Back in September, many believed he would officially secure a full-time role in Montreal, in the National Hockey League, and that he’d play 82 games under Martin St-Louis this season.

That’s not at all what happened.

The Canadiens’ management ultimately chose to move on from Joshua Roy following the 2024 training camp, and it was instead Emil Heineman who took advantage of the opportunity to establish himself as a regular.

Roy ended up playing only 12 games with the Montreal Canadiens this season (recording just two points), which is far below his personal expectations.

Joshua Roy will demand a trade from the Canadiens if he doesn’t become a regular in Montreal within a season or two

At least, that’s what he’s reportedly told those close to him, and what I’ve learned as well.

Roy has apparently set the age of 22 or 23 as the deadline to establish himself with the Canadiens once and for all (he turns 22 this August).

If it doesn’t work out, he will request a trade and try his luck elsewhere.

I’ll say it again, that’s what he’s told people in his circle.

Personally, I see this as a positive thing, because it shows Roy truly wants to become a regular NHL player and doesn’t want to “settle” for being far too dominant with the Laval Rocket.

Clearly, he’s going to work very hard this summer to have an outstanding training camp this fall.

And if he doesn’t play more than 40 or 50 games with the Canadiens next season, expect it could possibly be his last within the organization.

To be continued!

In Joshua Roy’s case, talent is absolutely not the issue.

I still believe he has the potential to become a solid NHL player, and I’m really looking forward to seeing what the next two or three years hold for him.

This season with the Laval Rocket, the forward from Saint-Georges-de-Beauce recorded 35 points in 47 games, including 20 goals.

Do you believe that with a team like the Chicago Blackhawks, he’d already be 100% established as an NHL player?