Patrick Roy - Vezina Trophy Winner (1997-98)

Lore & Background

Roy is the only player in NHL history to win the Conn Smythe Trophy three times, the only one to do so in three different decades (1980s, 1990s, and 2000s), and the only one to do so for two different teams. His number 33 sweater is retired by both the Canadiens and Avalanche. He is widely credited with popularizing the butterfly style of goaltending.

In Their Own Story

The ice was cold and crisp under the arena lights. Patrick Roy adjusted his mask, the familiar weight of the pads grounding him against the noise of the crowd. A slapshot screamed toward the top corner, but Roy moved with fluid precision, dropping to block the puck with a soft thud that echoed through the quiet net. He rose slowly, raising a gloved hand in silent command. The game was his kingdom.

Reader's Guide

Roy was drafted 51st overall in the 1984 NHL entry draft by the Montreal Canadiens. He made his NHL debut on February 23, 1985. He won the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1986, 1993, and 2001. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame on November 13, 2006. After retiring, he served as head coach for the Colorado Avalanche, the Quebec Remparts, and the New York Islanders (January 2024 to April 2026).

Did You Know?

• Roy was selected as the greatest goaltender in NHL history by a panel of 41 writers in 2004.
• He was named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players in history in 2017.
• Roy won the William M. Jennings Trophy in 1987, 1988, 1989, and 1992.
• He won the Vezina Trophy in 1989, 1990, and 1992.

The Butterfly Revolution

Patrick Roy is widely credited with transforming the art of goaltending by popularizing the butterfly style, a technique that has since become the dominant standard globally. Before his rise, goalies often relied on standing positions and aggressive stick saves, but Roy's commitment to dropping to his knees and sealing the ice below the crease revolutionized defensive strategy. This shift allowed him to cover more net area efficiently while maintaining agility. His mastery of this style was instrumental in his success with both the Montreal Canadiens and the Colorado Avalanche, helping him secure four Stanley Cup championships. By consistently demonstrating that the butterfly method could yield elite results at the highest level, Roy influenced a generation of goaltenders who adopted his techniques. His ability to execute complex saves while maintaining composure under pressure redefined what was expected from the position, earning him the moniker 'king of goaltenders' and solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest netminders in history.

Unprecedented Playoff Dominance

Roy holds a unique spot in NHL history as the only player to win the Conn Smythe Trophy three times, marking his unmatched playoff performance. He pulled this off across the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, representing two different teams: Montreal and Colorado. This record shows he could rise when it mattered most, guiding squads with limited regular-season scoring depth to championship glory. At age twenty with Montreal, he became the youngest ever Smythe winner. In 1993, he led a dramatic comeback against the New York Islanders, setting a record for consecutive playoff overtime wins. Later, he finished his career by steering Colorado back-to-back titles in the early 2000s. These wins prove his mental fortitude and technical skill were simply unmatched when the playoffs began.

A Dual Legacy in Montreal and Colorado

Roy's illustrious playing career was split between two iconic franchises, where he achieved similar heights of success despite different circumstances. He spent eleven years with the Montreal Canadiens, a team he initially disliked as a fan of their rival Quebec Nordiques, yet he became a cornerstone of their dynasty by winning two Stanley Cups and multiple Vezina Trophies. After being traded to the Colorado Avalanche, he continued his dominance for eight seasons, adding two more championships to his resume. His impact was so profound that both organizations retired his number 33 sweater, a rare honor reflecting his status as a franchise legend in both cities. In Montreal, he overcame early skepticism and equipment issues to lead them to unexpected titles, while in Colorado, he provided the veteran leadership necessary to transform the team into champions. This dual success story illustrates his adaptability and enduring excellence across different eras and management styles.

From Netminder to Coach

Following his retirement as a player, Roy transitioned successfully into coaching and executive roles, continuing his influence on the sport he loved. He first took the helm of the Quebec Remparts in the QMJHL before returning to the NHL as the head coach for the Colorado Avalanche, where he applied his deep understanding of goaltending to mentor younger players. This progression demonstrates his commitment to hockey beyond his playing days, leveraging his experience as a four-time Stanley Cup winner and Hall of Famer to guide teams at various levels. His induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2006 and selection as the greatest goaltender in history by writers and fans alike further validated his transition from a legendary player to a respected leader within the league's hierarchy.