Patrick Roy is a towering figure in ice hockey history, with his legacy imprinted in fans’ hearts and in the record books. Roy’s career spanned decades of unrivaled excellence, highlighted by four Stanley Cup championships and several individual awards. He is widely regarded as one of the best goaltenders of all time. Roy’s journey from humble beginnings in Quebec City to his celebrated career with the Montreal Canadiens and Colorado Avalanche exemplifies his sheer brilliance. Know more about Patrick Roy as you uncover his biography, awards, career, and net worth.
Table of Contents
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Patrick Roy |
| Date of Birth | October 5, 1965 |
| Place of Birth | Quebec City, Quebec, Canada |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) |
| Weight | 190 lb (86 kg; 13 st 3 lb) |
| Position | Goaltender |
| NHL Draft | 1984, Round 3, Overall Pick 51 (Montreal Canadiens) |
| Career Span | 1984–2003 (player), 2005–2016 (coach/manager) |
| Teams Played for | Montreal Canadiens, Colorado Avalanche |
| Jersey Numbers | 30 (Granby Bisons), 33 (Montreal Canadiens, Colorado Avalanche) |
| Retirement Date | May 28, 2003 |
| Retired Jerseys | Granby Bisons (No. 30), Montreal Canadiens (No. 33), Colorado Avalanche (No. 33) |
| Hall of Fame Induction | 2006 (Hockey Hall of Fame) |
| Major Awards | Calder Cup (1985), Stanley Cup (1986, 1993, 1996, 2001), Conn Smythe Trophy (1986, 1993, 2001), Vezina Trophy (1989, 1990, 1992), Jack Adams Award (2014) |
| NHL Records | Most NHL playoff games played by a goaltender (247), Most NHL playoff wins by a goaltender (151), First NHL goaltender to play 1,000 NHL games, First NHL goaltender to win 500 games |
Who is Patrick Roy?
Patrick Jacques Roy, born on October 5, 1965, in Quebec City, Canada, is a towering figure in the sport of ice hockey. Roy is regarded as one of the finest goaltenders in NHL history, and his biography from his early days in Quebec to his successful career is one of perseverance, skill, and unrelenting determination.
Roy, who was raised in Cap-Rouge, Quebec, developed a strong interest in hockey from a young age. At the age of seven, he took to the ice as a goalkeeper, a position he would eventually dominate with unparalleled skill. His talent rapidly became apparent as he advanced through the lesser leagues, eventually attracting the notice of professional scouts.
Roy began his professional career with the Sherbrooke Canadiens of the American Hockey League (AHL), where he showed his remarkable goalie skills. His outstanding performance piqued the interest of the Montreal Canadiens, who selected him 51st overall in the 1984 NHL Draft. This heralded the start of Roy’s famous career, which would see his name etched into hockey history.
Roy, nicknamed “Saint Patrick” for his extraordinary talent and clutch exploits, had an immediate impression when he joined the Montreal Canadiens. During his 11-year time with the Canadiens, he cemented his status as one of the NHL’s top goaltenders, helping the team to two Stanley Cup wins in 1986 and 1993.
In 1995, Roy’s storied career took a new turn as he was traded to the Colorado Avalanche. It was with the Avalanche that Roy would achieve even greater success, adding two more Stanley Cup victories to his storied resume in 1996 and 2001. His exceptional play and leadership were instrumental in establishing the Avalanche as a dominant force in the NHL during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Roy’s influence on the game went beyond his achievements on the ice. He is widely regarded with popularizing the butterfly method of goaltending, revolutionizing the position and inspiring a new generation of goaltenders. His remarkable attention to detail, incredible work ethic, and unrelenting focus established the NHL’s benchmark for greatness.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Roy represented Canada on the world scene. He was Canada’s starting goaltender in the 1998 Winter Olympics.
Roy retired as a player in 2003 and went on to become a coach. He was the head coach for the Colorado Avalanche and the Quebec Remparts of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), proving his ability to inspire and lead on and off the court.
Roy received various awards and honors over his successful career, including being inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2006. The Colorado Avalanche and the Montreal Canadiens both retired his number 33 jersey.
What is Patrick Roy’s age, height, and weight?
Patrick Roy was born on October 5, 1965, making him currently 58 years old. He stands at a height of 6 feet 2 inches (188 centimeters) and weighs 190 pounds (86 kilograms).
What is Patrick Roy’s Nationality and Ethnicity?
Patrick Roy is Canadian by nationality. As for his ethnicity, he is of French-Canadian descent.
What is Patrick Roy’s profession?
As a player, Roy distinguished himself as one of the greatest goaltenders in the history of the NHL. Renowned for his exceptional reflexes, agility, and mental toughness, he backstopped both the Montreal Canadiens and the Colorado Avalanche to multiple Stanley Cup victories.
Roy transitioned easily into coaching after retiring as a player in 2003. He began his coaching career with the Quebec Remparts of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), where he led the team to numerous victories, including the Memorial Cup triumph in 2006.
Roy made his widely anticipated return to the NHL in 2013 as the Colorado Avalanche’s head coach and vice president of hockey operations. The Avalanche witnessed a revival under his leadership, and Roy was honored with the Jack Adams Award for the NHL’s outstanding coach for the 2013-14 season. His inventive coaching techniques and strong tactical insights reenergized the club.
Roy has also made major contributions to the sport as an executive. His excellent eye for talent and strategic vision helped determine the future of hockey organizations.
| Year(s) | Career Endeavor | Key Happenings |
|---|---|---|
| 1984-2003 | Professional Ice Hockey Player | – Drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in 1984 (51st overall) |
| – Played 11 years with the Montreal Canadiens, winning Stanley Cups in 1986 and 1993 | ||
| – Traded to the Colorado Avalanche in 1995 | ||
| – Played 8 years with the Colorado Avalanche, winning Stanley Cups in 1996 and 2001 | ||
| – Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2006 | ||
| – Retired with numerous NHL records including most playoff wins (151) and games played (247) | ||
| 2005-2013 | Head Coach, Quebec Remparts (QMJHL) | – Guided the team to a Memorial Cup championship in 2006 |
| 2013-2016 | Head Coach and Vice-President of Hockey Operations, | – Named head coach and vice-president of hockey operations for the Colorado Avalanche in 2013 |
| Colorado Avalanche (NHL) | – Won the Jack Adams Award for NHL’s top coach in the 2013-14 season | |
| – Resigned in 2016 citing a lack of input in personnel decisions | ||
| 2024-Present | Head Coach, New York Islanders (NHL) | – Appointed head coach of the New York Islanders in January 2024 |
| – Earned first win as Islanders head coach on January 21, 2024 against the Dallas Stars |
Who are Patrick Roy’s Parents?
Patrick Roy’s parents are Barbara (Miller) and Michel Roy.
Does Patrick Roy have siblings?
Yes, Patrick Roy has a younger brother named Stéphane Roy.
Stéphane Roy, born on June 29, 1967, in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada, is a former professional ice hockey player who made his mark in the sport during his career spanning from 1987 to 2003. While Stéphane’s hockey journey may not have reached the same heights of fame and success as his older brother Patrick Roy, his contributions to the game are noteworthy.
Stéphane, who was raised in Cap-Rouge, Quebec, with his brother Patrick, developed an early interest in hockey. Like his brother, he showed talent and potential on the ice.
Stéphane began his professional hockey career in 1985, when the Minnesota North Stars drafted him in the third round (51st overall) of the NHL Draft. He made his NHL debut in 1987-88, playing 12 games and scoring one goal for the North Stars.
While Stéphane’s NHL career was limited, he achieved success and stability in several lower levels during his professional career. He has played with the Kalamazoo Wings in the IHL, the Halifax Citadels in the AHL, and the Memphis RiverKings in the CHL, among others.
Off the ice, Stéphane is noted for his modesty and down-to-earth demeanor, which resemble those of his famous brother.
Who is Patrick Roy married to?
Patrick Roy was once married to Michèle Piuze. They got married on June 9, 1990, and later divorced in early 2003.
Does Patrick Roy have children?
Yes, Patrick Roy has three children. He has two sons named Jonathan and Frederick, as well as a daughter named Jana.
What is Patrick Roy’s Net Worth?
Patrick Roy has an estimated net worth of $45 million.
How much does Patrick Roy make annually?
For detailed statistics, refer to the table here:
| Season | Earnings (US$) | In today’s US$ | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1984-85 | $32,474 | $95,253 | Rookie season with Montreal Canadiens, signed a two-way contract |
| 1985-86 | $62,220 | $176,243 | |
| 1986-87 | $68,400 | $190,142 | |
| 1987-88 | $113,100 | $303,305 | New contract with performance bonuses and deferred payments |
| 1988-89 | $223,575 | $576,047 | Vezina trophy winner, earned bonus |
| 1989-90 | $253,500 | $623,066 | |
| 1990-91 | $668,460 | $1,558,853 | Signed a 3-year contract with generous performance bonuses |
| 1991-92 | $1,047,600 | $2,343,812 | |
| 1992-93 | $1,348,010 | $2,927,157 | Includes salary, signing bonus, and Conn Smythe trophy prize |
| 1993-94 | $1,240,000 | $2,615,451 | Includes base salary and any bonuses for the season |
| 1994-95 | $1,457,841 | $2,996,925 | Salary prorated due to lockout, prior to the season signed a four-year deal |
| 1995-96 | $2,929,997 | $5,858,840 | |
| 1996-97 | $4,455,944 | $8,656,207 | Signed a three-year contract with Colorado Avalanche |
| 1997-98 | $4,463,260 | $8,472,186 | |
| 1998-99 | $5,113,260 | $9,557,759 | |
| 1999-00 | $7,500,000 | $13,718,634 | |
| 2000-01 | $7,500,000 | $13,270,906 | |
| 2001-02 | $8,500,000 | $14,626,701 | |
| 2002-03 | $8,500,000 | $14,398,210 | |
| 2013-14 | $3,000,000 | $3,923,850 | As head coach and Vice President of Hockey Operations of Colorado Avalanche |
| 2014-15 | $3,000,000 | $3,861,198 | |
| 2015-16 | $3,000,000 | $3,856,637 | |
| 2016-17 | $0 | $0 | Left fourth year of contract with Colorado Avalanche |
What philanthropic causes or charities does Patrick Roy support?
Patrick Roy, a former NHL goaltender, is well-known for his philanthropic efforts, having actively supported numerous causes and charities throughout his career and beyond. Patrick Roy has been active in several important causes, including the Ronald McDonald House charity. Roy has made major contributions to this charity since the 1980s, which gives lodging and support to families with children undergoing medical treatment.
Patrick Roy has been involved in a variety of charitable efforts, in addition to his support for Ronald McDonald House. While precise specifics are not generally known, Roy’s reputation as a philanthropist implies that he is likely to support a variety of causes, including those relating to health, education, and youth development.
He also has a foundation he runs to support other important causes.
What brands and endorsements does Patrick Roy have?
Patrick Roy, a former NHL goaltender, has been affiliated with a number of brands and endorsements over his career. While he does not have as many endorsements as certain athletes in more mainstream sports, he has worked with brands that provide hockey equipment and apparel.
Patrick Roy has been involved with several famous firms, including CCM, a leading maker of hockey equipment and apparel. Roy’s involvement with CCM is likely to include endorsements for goalie equipment including as masks, pads, and gloves, considering his status as one of the greatest goaltenders in NHL history.
How many awards has Patrick Roy won?
Patrick Roy, widely recognized as one of the finest goaltenders in NHL history, has won an astounding number of awards over his lengthy career. Roy has been acknowledged multiple times in his playing and coaching careers for his great skills, leadership, and accomplishments to the sport of hockey.
One of the most prestigious accolades in Roy’s trophy cabinet is the Stanley Cup, which he won four times during his playing career. He hoisted the Cup twice with the Montreal Canadiens (in 1986 and 1993) and twice with the Colorado Avalanche (in 1996 and 2001), sealing his status as a champion goalie on two different franchises.
In addition to his Stanley Cup victories, Patrick Roy has been the recipient of several individual awards that highlight his remarkable talents as a goaltender. He has won the Vezina Trophy, awarded to the NHL’s best goaltender, on three occasions (in 1989, 1990, and 1992), making him a dominant force between the pipes.
Furthermore, Roy’s contributions to his teams’ success in the playoffs have not gone unnoticed, as he has been honored with the Conn Smythe Trophy three times. This prestigious award is presented to the most valuable player in the NHL playoffs, and Roy’s three Conn Smythe wins (in 1986, 1993, and 2001),
Patrick Roy has also been recognized for his consistency and excellence throughout his career. He has been named to the NHL All-Star Team multiple times, earning First Team All-Star honors four times and Second Team All-Star honors twice.
In addition to his individual achievements, Patrick Roy has also been honored by the teams he played for. Both the Montreal Canadiens and the Colorado Avalanche retired his jersey number 33.
| Category | Description | Year(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Career Achievements | ||
| Jersey Number Retirements | Granby Bisons (30), Colorado Avalanche (33), Montreal Canadiens (33) | |
| Rankings | Ranked #22 on The Hockey News’ list of the 100 Greatest Hockey Players (1998) | 1998 |
| Hall of Fame Inductions | Colorado Sports Hall of Fame (2004), Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League Hall of Fame (2004), Hockey Hall of Fame (2006), Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame (2010) | 2004, 2006, 2010 |
| The Hockey News Rankings | Ranked #5 in The Top 60 Since 1967 – the best players of the post-expansion era | |
| Milestones | ||
| Records | ||
| Most NHL Playoff Games Played by a Goaltender | 247 (third-most playoff games of all players) | |
| Most NHL Playoff Wins by a Goaltender | 151 | |
| First NHL Goaltender to Play 1,000 NHL Games | Finished with 1,029 games, later passed by Martin Brodeur | |
| First NHL Goaltender to Win 500 Games | ||
| Most Conn Smythe Trophy Wins | 3 | |
| Awards | ||
| Calder Cup | 1985 | 1985 |
| Stanley Cup | 1986, 1993 (Montreal); 1996, 2001 (Colorado) | 1986, 1993, 1996, 2001 |
| Conn Smythe Trophy | 1986, 1993, 2001 | 1986, 1993, 2001 |
| William M. Jennings Trophy | 1987*, 1988*, 1989*, 1992, 2002 | 1987*, 1988*, 1989*, 1992, 2002 |
| Vezina Trophy | 1989, 1990, 1992 | 1989, 1990, 1992 |
| NHL All-Star Game | 1988, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2002, 2003 | 1988-1994, 1997-1998, 2001-2003 |
| NHL First All-Star Team | 1989, 1990, 1992, 2002 | 1989, 1990, 1992, 2002 |
| NHL Second All-Star Team | 1988, 1991 | 1988, 1991 |
| NHL All-Rookie Team | 1986 | 1986 |
| Trico Goaltending Award | 1989, 1990 | 1989, 1990 |
| Jersey Number Retirements | Colorado Avalanche (33), Montreal Canadiens (33) | 2003, 2008 |
| Awards as a Coach | ||
| Memorial Cup | With Quebec Remparts in 2006 and 2023 | 2006, 2023 |
| Jack Adams Award | 2014 | 2014 |
| Maurice Filion Trophy | 2022 | 2022 |
| Gilles-Courteau Trophy | With Quebec Remparts in 2023 | 2023 |
Facts About Patrick Roy?
Is Patrick Roy the Best Goalie Ever?
Patrick Roy’s storied career boasts four Stanley Cup victories and three Conn Smythe trophies, alongside three Vezina trophies, recognizing him as the NHL’s premier goaltender. Widely regarded as one of the greatest goaltenders in NHL history, Roy’s exceptional achievements position him as the top-ranked Canadiens goalie of all time and the second-highest in career wins, totaling an impressive 551 victories.
How many goals has Patrick Roy scored?
Patrick Roy did not score any goals in his career.
How heavy is Patrick Roy?
Patrick Roy weighs 86kg.
Did Patrick Roy have a unique superstition?
Patrick Roy was known for a peculiar superstition during his playing days. He believed in talking to the goalposts, a practice he developed early in his career to establish a psychological connection with the equipment he relied on for success. This quirky habit became a hallmark of his goaltending style and added to his mystique on the ice.
How did Patrick Roy get his famous nickname?
Patrick Roy earned the nickname “St. Patrick” for his exceptional goaltending skills, particularly during crucial moments in high-pressure playoff games. His remarkable ability to elevate his performance when it mattered most led fans and teammates alike to compare him to a saint guarding the net, hence the nickname “St. Patrick.”
What was Patrick Roy’s unexpected career aspiration?
Despite his legendary status as a goaltender, Patrick Roy once expressed an interest in becoming a firefighter. Although he ultimately pursued a different path, this tidbit reveals a lesser-known aspect of Roy’s personality.
Did Patrick Roy have a memorable off-ice moment?
Off the ice, Patrick Roy had a memorable encounter with a young fan who showed his kindness and generosity. During a public appearance, Roy took the time to chat with a young aspiring goaltender, offering encouragement and advice. This heartwarming interaction left a lasting impression on the fans.
What was Patrick Roy’s surprising hobby?
Beyond his prowess on the ice, Patrick Roy had a surprising hobby: cooking. Known for his culinary skills off the rink, Roy enjoyed experimenting with recipes and hosting dinner parties for friends and family.
What was Patrick Roy’s impact on goaltending strategy?
Patrick Roy revolutionized the goaltending position with his aggressive playing style and innovative techniques. He pioneered the practice of challenging shooters by stepping out of the crease, effectively reducing the angle of the shot and making himself appear larger in the net. Roy’s proactive approach to goaltending inspired a new generation of goalies to adopt similar tactics, reshaping the way the position is played in modern hockey.