Patrick Roy praises NY Islanders effort and commitment to structure during scrimmage

Head Coach Patrick Roy came away pleased with what he saw from the New York Islanders in their first training camp scrimmage. “We’ve been talking a lot about our structure and our system the last two days, and I was pretty happy with what I’ve seen,” Roy said.

Roy noted that Mathew Barzal, returning to center after spending most of his recent time on the wing, will need some time to regain comfort following last season’s injury-shortened campaign. “I think it’s going to take a bit of time for Barzy,” Roy said. “He played what, 30 games? It was a tough injury. But he’s working hard, and with Pomsy and Anders on his side, you can’t have better than this. They’re great veterans who work hard every day.”

Roy singled out Maxim Shabanov, the KHL standout who joined the Islanders this summer. “His skills, the way he has the puck on his stick… it looks so smooth, it’s fun to watch,” Roy said.

Another newcomer, Emil Heineman, who came from Montreal in the Noah Dobson trade, has impressed Roy with his shot. “He shoots the puck pretty well. He’s a great shooter. It’s a fresh start for him and it’s going to take time, but I’m very happy with him.”

Roy also had positive words for Anthony Duclair, who scored during the scrimmage. “I liked the energy he had and his compete level,” he said.

For the Islanders’ bottom six, Roy pointed to the chemistry between Casey Cizikas, Heineman and Max Tsyplakov. “It’s pretty easy to play with Casey because he’s an energy guy, but also he has so much experience. Sepy protects the puck very well. I think that might be a good fit for the three of them.”

Roy emphasized that camp remains about learning and adjustment. “Everyone’s learning—it’s a process. What I want is for these guys to feel free out there, have fun, and be themselves.”