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Patrick Roy Could Be an Interesting Pick to Coach Maple Leafs

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | By Old Prof | Last updated 6/5/23

The Toronto Maple Leafs have had their fair share of struggles in recent years, especially when it comes to playoff success. As the team searches for answers, NHL analyst Kris Versteeg suggests a bold move. He believes the Maple Leafs should replace current head coach Sheldon Keefe with Hall of Fame Goalie and former coach of the Colorado Avalanche Patrick Roy.

In the recent episode of the JD Bunkis Podcast, seen in the video below, Versteeg explains why he believes Roy should be the coach that the Maple Leafs need to hire. Why? Because he believes Roy can help the Maple Leafs finally overcome their postseason hurdles.

Roy’s Coaching Evolution

Roy coached the Quebec Remparts to a Memorial Cup victory on Sunday. By doing so, that began the speculation that he might just be ready to take on an NHL job. Over 12 seasons in junior with the Remparts, Roy has put together an impressive coaching record of 459-246-60.

According to Versteeg, Roy has learned a thing or two about coaching in his time with the Remparts. In his time with the Avalanche, Roy employed a strict man-on-man defensive system. However, over time he’s he adapted and developed a more hybrid approach.

That approach has helped his team play more effectively. Versteeg believes Roy has learned and is now ready to apply his knowledge to the NHL.

Building Upon Roy’s Expertise

One key aspect Versteeg emphasizes is Roy’s ability to effectively manage the team’s power play and defensive structure. Drawing from his own experience playing against Roy’s Avalanche, Versteeg admits that Roy’s rigid system simply didn’t work. However, he believes the goalie legend has evolved and would bring a wiser approach to the NHL level.

Versteeg also suggests that Roy would benefit from other assistant coaches’ expertise. And, the Maple Leafs don’t have a salary cap when it comes to hiring assistant coaches. In fact, Versteeg speculates that a potential coaching staff could join Roy in Toronto. Someone like Simone Gagné could assist with the offence. It would also be possible to bolster the defensive coaching staff as well.

Roy Could Fit the Big Stage Well

Versteeg believes that Roy would not wilt from pressure, but would thrive. His Hall of Fame career says it all. He’s also showcased his ability to handle pressure at every level. Versteeg also believes Roy’s personality and experience would resonate with Toronto’s fans.

Versteeg believes that Roy has been through the ups and downs of coaching. That includes returning to juniors. Roy understands what it takes to win. Could he be the leader the Maple Leafs need?

Versteeg knows there are other former NHL coaches who could take the job, but he believes Roy stands out as a good fit for the Maple Leafs. He believes Roy’s track record and ability to thrive in high-stakes situations make him an intriguing candidate.

The Bottom Line

Obviously, there’s no conclusion that the Maple Leafs will even make a coaching change. Still, Versteeg endorses Roy as a potential replacement for Sheldon Keefe.

Roy’s coaching evolution, ability to handle pressure, and understanding of what it takes to win could help the Maple Leafs finally overcome their playoff struggles. It’s a bold step, but having Roy behind the bench certainly presents an intriguing possibility for the team and its fan base.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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