Patrick Roy is categorical: the recruiters of the 32 teams of the National Hockey League (NHL) have erred in their assessment of the captain of the Quebec Remparts, Théo Rochette.
The 19-year-old forward is having the best season of his career in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). In 44 games this season, he has so far collected 61 points which placed him sixth in league scoring going into Tuesday night’s games.
The Canadian-Swiss, however, has already been ignored twice in the repechage. He had his first professional experience at the Toronto Maple Leafs’ development camp at the start of the season, but is still without a contract.
An incomprehensible situation for Roy.
“I look at the players who have been drafted and I find it appalling that Théo Rochette has not been. Personally, I am disappointed with Quebec scouts across NHL teams. I think they have a job to do there. I admire his perseverance and tenacity. He’s probably our best player right now and it’s a credit to him for being resilient and continuing to persevere to help the team win. He deserves an opportunity at the next level,” he said Tuesday morning.
Without pressure
For his part, Rochette has often mentioned it: the disappointment of being ignored in the draft was strong in his first year of eligibility, in 2020. Since then, he prefers not to worry anymore.
“In my draft year, I put a lot of pressure on myself. Even if we try not to think about it, it’s easier said than done. I was disappointed, but since then I try not to wait anymore. I’m playing my best and my goal is to win.”
If he no longer thinks about it, Rochette still took the criticisms of him at their word. Considered by several recruiters as a player evolving too much on the periphery to have a professional career, he says he works every day to prove to people that he has understood the message.
“When I was not drafted in my first year, the reproach that was made to me was that I did not use my physique enough. I work on that a lot in the gym and on the ice. I try to use my body in one-on-one battles. I’m working on it for myself, but also for the team. We’ll see what happens at the end of the season.”
Chemistry with Bolduc
Early in the season, Roy placed St. Louis Blues first-round pick Zachary Bolduc alongside Rochette. If the two players took time to develop a chemistry, it has been well established for a few months. Since February, the two players have combined their efforts for 50 points in just 14 games, 26 for Rochette and 24 for Bolduc.
For the latter, moreover, there is also no doubt that the doors of North American professional hockey will open for his center player.
“He’s an excellent skater and a talented player. He has a great shot and he’s quite a passer. I think if he’s not invited, he’s going to be drafted. I have no doubt that something will open up for him.”