EDMONTON | The cancellation of World Juniors last December due to COVID-19 will have deprived several players of an international experience. With Joshua Roy it’s the other way around. Not only does he get an unexpected chance to represent his country, but he will do so on the front row of the team with Mason McTavish and Connor Bedard.
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The Sherbrooke Phoenix striker and Montreal Canadiens hopeful, who was suspended in December, says he has experienced a major disappointment.
“I was disappointed because it went really well,” he said on Monday night after the Canadian formation’s first and only preseason game – a 4-3 win over Sweden – ahead of his official debut tomorrow. At the time, I had set myself the goal of joining the team next winter. When I saw the tournament was cancelled [en décembre dernier], my goal has changed and I wanted to work my way into it. I worked hard and when I heard the news I was super happy. »
big challenge
It couldn’t have gone any better for the Habs’ pick in the fifth round. The departure of nine members of the original lineup last December not only allowed him to keep his place but also, on the face of it, play an important role there. On Monday night against Sweden he scored his fourth goal and was used in offensive engagements with McTavish and Bedard at five-a-side in addition to being used in the second wave of the power play.
Right now it’s obvious that Hockey Canada has faith in young Beauceron.
“It’s a big challenge for me. I have two very good players who probably have the two best prospects here. However, I don’t worry too much about it. I play my game and it’s not for nothing that I’m in the front row. I spoke to the trainer and he liked the way I practiced. All I want to do is play my style, work hard and help my teammates score goals. »
Nothing acquired
But even if Joshua Roy should start with the first unit in attack in Team Canada Junior’s first official game, Wednesday against Latvia, nothing can be taken for granted for him. Head coach Dave Cameron made it clear that there will be roster changes throughout the competition.
“I shouldn’t take my job for granted. I have to carry on as before. »