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Why Patrick Roy is quietly entering the Jack Adams discussion early in the season
Photo credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Last season, Washington Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery was awarded the Jack Adams Trophy, given to the NHL's coach of the year.
He was followed in the voting by Winnipeg Jets coach Scott Arniel and a certain Martin St-Louis. Despite the Canadiens' strong start to the season, St-Louis would not, at this point, be among the favorites for the title.
However, there is another Quebec coach who appears to be climbing to the top of that list: Patrick Roy.
The surprising New York Islanders and a Jack Adams Trophy rumor surrounding Patrick Roy
As TVA Sports journalist Kevin Dubé reminds us, the surprising start to the season by the New York Islanders could very well place the Canadiens legend among the leading contenders for the prestigious honor.
"Yes, it is still very, very early, but we're justified in asking whether Patrick Roy might, as of today, be ahead in the race for the Jack Adams Award, given to the NHL's coach of the year." - Kevin Dubé, TVA Sports
Few people would have bet on the New York squad at the start of the season, especially after Noah Dobson left for Montreal. Although it is still early, no question about it, Patrick Roy's group has just won some major games.
We must not forget that the Isles opened the campaign with a disappointing 5-5-1 record in October. It is quite a turnaround for a team that missed the playoffs in 2024-2025 and finished 12th in the East.
There is no doubt in my mind that their recent success is largely due to the arrival and breath of fresh air brought by Matthew Schaefer to the lineup. The young 18-year-old defenseman is playing some outstanding hockey. Beyond his offensive abilities, the most recent first-overall pick impresses with his speed and fluidity on the ice.
Martin St-Louis still has a chance
As surprising as it may seem, Patrick Roy is not yet among the outright favorites. Among those with the lowest odds right now are Joel Quenneville (Anaheim), Martin St-Louis (Montreal), André Tourigny (Utah), and Dan Muse (Pittsburgh).
But as I mentioned above, the season is still young for everyone. Everything can change very quickly depending on how each team performs. It will be interesting to see who, at the mid-season mark, remains among the favorites for this honor. We will have confirmations at that point.
Speaking of a major upcoming confirmation for Patrick Roy and the Islanders, he could soon receive some very big and positive news regarding his future behind the bench.
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