The Montreal Canadiens have made strategic roster moves as they aim for the playoffs, announcing the recall of winger Joshua Roy from the Laval Rocket on Monday morning, March 10, 2025, along with sending Owen Beck back to the American Hockey League (AHL). These decisions come during what the team considers ‘Hail Mary’ territory, highlighting their urgent need for offensive solutions as they prepare to face the Vancouver Canucks on March 11.
Joshua Roy, a promising player, has been among the top forwards for the Rocket, having recorded 15 goals, 20 assists, and 35 points over 46 games this season. His recent performance includes scoring his 20th goal on March 8, making him the first member of the Rocket to reach this milestone this season. Roy's game-winning goal during his last match helped secure the Rocket's position at the top of the AHL standings.
On the other hand, Owen Beck has struggled to find his footing with the Canadiens, accumulating no goals and just one assist over his 12 games with the team. Despite this, Beck managed to control 53% of expected goals when on the ice, showing flashes of potential even amid limited opportunities. The Canadiens' decision to send him back to Laval is partly to allow him to regain confidence and work on his game before the AHL playoffs.
With only 19 games remaining on their regular-season schedule, the Canadiens find themselves walking a tightrope as they assess their chances at the playoffs. Currently, the Eastern Conference standings have opened up slightly, as many teams appear to be underperforming, allowing the Canadiens to capitalize on any opportunity. The urgency of scoring goals is palpable; with recent games marked by dismal offensive output, the team is eager to see if Roy can reinvigorate the lineup.
Coach Martin St. Louis expressed the need for fresh legs and energy as the team hopes to stabilize their center position following Beck's departure. With other key players battling illness, including Patrik Laine, the coaching staff is optimistic about Roy's potential impact on the ice. "I’ve been working on my overall game to become a [better] complete player," Roy noted during practice, highlighting his growth mindset and readiness to contribute more significantly at the NHL level.
Pascal Vincent, who has guided the Rocket to outstanding success with the best record (37-15-3) in the AHL, lauded Roy’s hockey sense as integral to his development as he transitions back to the NHL. Vincent stated, “If you just play one game in the NHL you’re a pretty good player.” This statement reinforces the level of competition players face at the NHL, and how even the top talents need to continually evolve their game.
Roy’s previous stint with the Canadiens was less fruitful, as he saw no points during his four games earlier this season, but he has recently regained confidence with the Rocket, scoring five goals over his last seven games. His track record and growing confidence are reasons behind his recall; the Canadiens are hopeful he can translate his skills to the NHL stage.
Controversy arises as the Canadiens must navigate the fallout from other issues, including the confirmed case of measles reported from their last game on March 3 against the Buffalo Sabres. Fans have been advised to monitor for symptoms, particularly if they were seated in specific sections of the Bell Centre. This incident factors significantly within the team atmosphere as they prepare to enter the high-stress playoff environment.
While maintaining continuity with their core forwards, the Canadiens need every bit of energy they can muster. The forward lines are already being impacted by injuries and health concerns, making the need for functional partnerships on the ice even more pressing. Oliver Kapanen continues to exhibit great performance among his peers, which highlights the potential for younger players to step up as the Canadiens seek to round out their roster effectively.
With Roy now integrated back, the Canadiens will hope this marks the beginning of heightened contributions from their players. Coach St. Louis will adjust the lineup before the upcoming game against the Canucks, aiming to deliver the necessary cohesion across the ice. "We might be young, but the talent is there. We want these young players to develop for tomorrow’s success," Vincent stated. The stakes are high as each match becomes pivotal; oversights could mean lost opportunities.
Fans are eagerly watching how the call-ups, such as Roy’s, will influence the outcome of the season, driving speculation about the Canadiens' playoff viability. Each game is more than just for points; it's about establishing the foundation for future success, players' growth, and building confidence as they fight their way back to the playoffs. A collective effort will be required to revive their season hopes, with Roy undoubtedly among those tasked to make immediate impacts on the ice.