The numbers
In a captivating encounter at the Bell Centre on March 22, 2026, the Montreal Canadiens triumphed over Patrick Roy’s New York Islanders with a decisive score of 7-3. This game marked a significant moment for Zachary Bolduc, who had been struggling with a 30-game goal drought prior to this matchup.
Bolduc, a first-round pick of the St. Louis Blues in 2021, has had a challenging season, recording only 26 points in 67 games. However, his history with Patrick Roy, who coached him to an impressive 50 goals while with the Quebec Remparts, added an emotional layer to the game. Fans and analysts alike were eager to see how Bolduc would perform against his former mentor.
The game took an intriguing turn when Roy challenged a goal scored by Bolduc for offside. The call was overturned after video review, showcasing Roy’s competitive spirit and tactical acumen. “Patrick Roy calling for a review at 7-3 on a goal by his former player (Zach Bolduc with the Remparts) is so Patrick Roy,” remarked analyst Guillaume Villemaire, highlighting the unique dynamic between the two.
Despite Bolduc’s attempts to connect with Roy during the game, the legendary coach appeared to ignore him, leading to questions about the nature of their relationship. Some observers noted, “A glaring lack of humanity from Patrick Roy,” suggesting that the competitive nature of the game may have overshadowed their past connection.
Meanwhile, the Canadiens showcased their offensive prowess, with Nick Suzuki delivering a standout performance with four assists and Cole Caufield netting his second hat trick of the season. Matthew Schaefer also contributed by scoring his 22nd career NHL goal, further solidifying the Canadiens’ dominance in this matchup.
As the Islanders continue their playoff push, currently sitting with 83 points, the pressure is on for Roy to guide his team through the final stretch of the season. The emotional stakes for Bolduc, on the other hand, were palpable as he sought to break free from his scoring slump against a team that holds significant memories for him.
Observers are left to ponder the implications of this game for both Bolduc and Roy. Did Patrick Roy disrespect Zachary Bolduc? The question lingers, as fans and analysts await further developments in their relationship and the Islanders’ playoff journey. Details remain unconfirmed.
