The decision to demote Joshua Roy, whose position in Montreal seemed all but certain following Patrik Laine’s injury, sends a strong message from Canadiens management.

“Your position is not really secured because you have the impression that your position is secured because there is less competition,” remarked TVA Sports journalist Renaud Lavoie on Monday evening as part of a special broadcast on our airwaves that set the table for launch the regular season.

At the start of training camp, Roy appeared destined to start the season in the NHL after recording nine points, including four goals, in 23 games with the Habs in 2023-2024. After Laine’s injury, we logically saw him as the one to replace the Finn in the second trio.

“Several players stole his position [Alex Barré-Boulet, Oliver Kapanen et Emil Heineman]. We don’t tell him, ‘You’re going to play on the fourth line or you’re going to be our 13th striker.’ He was told, ‘Go back and prove yourself.’ It’s still quite a slap on the wrist.”

Our reporter still believes we’ll see Roy back in the NHL soon.

“Everyone is sure he will set the American League on fire again in Laval,” Lavoie said. We’ll see him again sooner rather than later.”

As for defender Logan Mailloux, his pass through Laval is less surprising.

“That’s part of the plan,” explained our hockey expert. He knew he had a good chance of starting the season with the Laval Rocket. I have a feeling we’ll see him again sooner rather than later.

“In my opinion, he is one memory away from ever returning to the American League.”

See the full excerpt in the video above.

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