Columbus: Patrick Roy one of the top two candidates

Where will Patrick Roy go? The question is on everyone’s lips at the moment.

While many fans are hoping to see him in New York, where his former team-mate Chris Drury leads the Rangers on the second floor, there’s currently a lot more buzz around Columbus.

It would be a less sexy destination for Roy, but if he wants to come back, maybe this is his best chance.

At the moment, four NHL vacancies remain (Anaheim, New York, Calgary and Columbus), as the Capitals have reportedly found their man for the next move.

All this to say that Roy is a popular name in Ohio right now. How popular?

To the point where, according to journalist Mark Scheig, who covers Blue Jackets activities on a regular basis, Roy is, along with Andrew Brunette, the favorite to get the job.

As of 8am on 5/30/23, here is my personal take on the coaching candidates. I have five coaches in three tiers with tier 1 being the strongest candidates IMO.

Tier 1: Patrick Roy, Andrew Brunette
Tier 2: Pascal Vincent
Tier 3: Travis Green, Kirk Muller#CBJ

– Mark Scheig (@mark_scheig) May 30, 2023

Pascal Vincent’s name also comes up.

According to the journalist, we can expect to see an announcement this week in Columbus. The club is almost ready to announce its choice as the process draws to a close.

If nothing is announced this week, it looks good for Patrick. But why?

Because the Quebec City native can’t be announced as a candidate until Monday. After all, his Remparts will be playing for the Memorial Cup on Sunday, so a delayed announcement improves his chances of being named.

1. Yes.
2. If it goes past Friday, that would point to Patrick Roy imo since his team will play Sunday for the Memorial Cup. #CBJ https://t.co/ZFPUlqV7iK

– Mark Scheig (@mark_scheig) May 30, 2023

If the former Avalanche coach were to be named to the Jackets’ helm, it would give the organization a lot of exposure, as it would get a good coach and a strong face in the NHL.

Columbus would be the talk of the town.

Whoever gives me the best quote. #CBJ https://t.co/HTwUIIRNbc

– Mark Scheig (@mark_scheig) May 30, 2023

Remember, the Blue Jackets don’t have a big club, but the third overall pick in the upcoming auction belongs to the club. A big center will be taken with the pick.

Roy, however, wasn’t afraid to lead a bad club when he took the job in Colorado 10 years ago.

Extension

Obviously, there’s a big difference, in Roy’s heart, between Denver and Columbus. Everyone agrees on that… but an NHL job is an NHL job.

And if Roy is hungry, Columbus could potentially give him what he really wants: the chance to make a difference on the Bettman circuit.