What if the Colorado Avalanche were unable to trade for Patrick Roy?

In December 1995, the Colorado Avalanche pulled off one of the most impactful trades in NHL history — acquiring superstar goaltender Patrick Roy from the Montreal Canadiens. The move became the backbone of the Avalanche’s rise to dominance, culminating in Stanley Cup victories in 1996 and 2001. But what if that trade never happened?

A Fractured Relationship in Montreal

Patrick Roy’s fallout with the Canadiens was swift and dramatic. Humiliated after being left in net during a blowout loss to the Detroit Red Wings, Roy famously declared he had played his last game for Montreal. The Canadiens scrambled to deal their franchise goalie, and the Avalanche — new to Colorado and looking for a leader — seized the opportunity.

But imagine if Montreal had held firm, or dealt Roy to another team — say, the Detroit Red Wings or the St. Louis Blues. The Avalanche would have been forced to continue with their existing goaltenders, none of whom had Roy’s playoff pedigree or mental toughness.

The 1996 Cup Run — Without Roy?

Without Roy’s heroics between the pipes, it’s hard to see Colorado capturing the Cup in 1996. His .921 save percentage and unforgettable saves in high-pressure moments were essential in pushing past the likes of Chicago and Florida. Without him, the Avalanche might have exited early — or not reached the Finals at all.

Meanwhile, Roy could have transformed another contender into a juggernaut. Had Detroit managed to land him, would they have won even more than the three Cups they captured in the late '90s and early 2000s?

Long-Term Legacy in Jeopardy

Roy’s presence in Colorado helped shape the identity of the franchise. His leadership, intensity, and playoff dominance set a standard for future stars like Joe Sakic, Peter Forsberg, and Milan Hejduk. Without him, the Avalanche may not have developed the same winning culture — or attracted the same caliber of talent.

Even beyond the Cups, Roy’s arrival legitimized the Avalanche in their new home. He gave Colorado a face, a champion, and a reason to believe.

Final Thought

The Avalanche’s dynasty hinged on a single trade. Without Patrick Roy, they might have remained a talented team without the hardware — good, but never legendary. In hockey, as in life, timing and bold decisions define greatness. And few were bolder than trading for Roy.