Patrick Roy, who once faced off against Jonathan Drouin while coaching in the QMJHL, has reunited with the talented forward as they both now work with the New York Islanders in the NHL. A decade has passed since their junior hockey days, and both Roy and Drouin have undergone significant transformations in their respective roles.
Roy noted Drouin’s maturation as a player, recognizing the strides he has made since his junior days when he played alongside Nathan MacKinnon for the Halifax Mooseheads. “He’s very mature right now,” Roy commented, elaborating on the difference in Drouin’s game, particularly highlighting his two-way play. Drouin’s ability to contribute offensively while also being reliable defensively shows his growth, which Roy finds impressive.
Drouin’s career has seen its ups and downs, especially during his two-year stint with the Colorado Avalanche, which revitalized his status in the league. Acquired on a cost-effective one-year deal after an inconsistent period with the Montreal Canadiens, Drouin proved his worth with a successful season, netting 19 goals and contributing 56 points two years ago. Despite his strong performance, financial constraints prevented the Avalanche from retaining him, leading Drouin to make the tough decision to move on.
“It sucked,” Drouin reflected. “I enjoyed my time in Colorado. I would have loved to stay here for the rest of my career, but the business side of it doesn’t allow it sometimes. You’ve got to move on and do different things.”
After officially signing a two-year, $8 million contract with the Islanders on July 1, Drouin has quickly become an integral part of the team. So far, he has scored 14 points in his first 17 games with the Islanders. Teammate Kyle Palmieri praised Drouin’s adaptability, stating, “He’s a guy you can put with anybody, and he elevates that line.”
In addition to his on-ice contributions, Drouin has the opportunity to serve as a mentor to Calum Ritchie, a young forward with the Islanders who was once a highly-regarded prospect for the Avalanche. Drouin has taken it upon himself to guide Ritchie, drawing from his own experiences to help the younger player grow.
The story of Jonathan Drouin serves as a reminder of resilience and the importance of adaptation in professional sports. With his renewed vigor and support from a familiar coaching staff, Drouin is navigating this new chapter with enthusiasm, promising to be a key player for the Islanders as he continues to evolve in his career.