Canadian · Quebec City, Canada · Born 5 October 1965Canadian ice hockey goaltender widely considered one of the greatest goalies of all time, winning four Stanley Cups and three Conn Smythe Trophies
Patrick Roy won four Stanley Cups and three Conn Smythe Trophies as playoff MVP, a level of postseason dominance matched by few goaltenders in NHL history, split between the Montreal Canadiens and Colorado Avalanche. He revolutionised goaltending with his butterfly style, won the Vezina Trophy three times as the league's top goaltender, and later became a successful junior and NHL head coach, extending his influence over the position long after his playing career ended.
Won the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP three times, including as a 20-year-old rookie in 1986.
He talked to his goalposts between plays, believing it helped him focus.
Did You Know?How They Played
Roy pioneered the modern butterfly style of goaltending, dropping to his knees with pads splayed to cover the bottom of the net. He was known for his exceptional positioning, quick reflexes, and ability to handle the puck behind the net. His intense competitiveness and mental toughness made him particularly dominant in playoff situations.
Lasting Impact
Roy revolutionized goaltending technique and his butterfly style became the standard for modern goalies. He set the template for the athletic, technically-sound goaltender that dominates today's game.
Career Honours
- Stanley Cup 4x
- Conn Smythe 3x
- Vezina Trophy 3x
| Team | Period | GP | Jersey |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montreal Canadiens | 1984–1995 | 551 | #33 |
| Colorado Avalanche | 1995–2003 | 478 | — |
Canadian Athletes