In a recent matchup on March 22, 2026, the Montreal Canadiens triumphed over the New York Islanders with a decisive score of 7-3. This game was particularly notable for the interactions between Islanders coach Patrick Roy and forward Zachary Bolduc, who had been experiencing a challenging season.
Zachary Bolduc entered the game with a 30-game goal drought, a statistic that weighed heavily on his performance. Despite this, Bolduc had previously scored 50 goals under Roy’s coaching at the Quebec Remparts, showcasing the potential that led to his first-round selection by the St. Louis Blues in 2021. During the game, Bolduc attempted to make eye contact with Roy, but his efforts were met with indifference as Roy ignored him.
In a moment that drew considerable attention, Roy challenged a goal scored by Bolduc for offside. The decision was overturned after a video review, a move that some observers found emblematic of Roy’s competitive nature. “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 Guillaume Villemaire, highlighting the complexity of their relationship.
Throughout the game, Bolduc recorded 26 points in 67 games this season, but his struggles were evident as he sought to break free from his scoring slump. Meanwhile, the Canadiens’ Nick Suzuki had a standout performance with four assists, and Cole Caufield notched his second hat trick of the season, further contributing to the Islanders’ woes. Matthew Schaefer also made his mark by scoring his 22nd career NHL goal.
Roy’s Islanders are currently in the midst of a playoff race, holding 83 points, which adds another layer of pressure to the team’s performance as the season progresses. Observers are left to ponder whether Roy’s actions during the game were a strategic decision or a reflection of his complicated history with Bolduc.
As the season continues, the dynamics between Roy and Bolduc will be closely watched. Did Roy disrespect Bolduc, or was it merely a tactical move in a high-stakes game? These questions linger as fans and analysts alike await further developments.
Details remain unconfirmed about the implications of this game on Bolduc’s future with the Islanders and how it may affect his relationship with Roy moving forward.
