Mathew Barzal raved about Patrick Roy's impact on the club's culture and what he's learned from the Hockey Hall of Fame goaltender over the last year.

EAST MEADOW, NY -- The New York Islanders haven't had the results they hoped to have in Patrick Roy's first full season as head coach.

Taking over behind the bench a year ago today, Jan. 20, the Hockey Hall of Fame goaltender's passion and fire helped pave the way for the Islanders to qualify for the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs ultimately.

Despite being eliminated in five games by the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round, there were reasons for optimism. 

This season, due to injuries and inconsistent play, the Islanders are eight points back of a wild-card spot at this point in the season. 

But that doesn't mean the players have stopped believing in Roy, including their star, Mathew Barzal.

When Roy was first hired, No. 13 made a bold statement, saying, "Wins and losses are one thing, but then, on a daily basis, we're building a blueprint that is going to allow us to become champions."

Barzal still believes that to be the case despite the results. 

“Obviously, the year where we are in the standings isn't indicative of the culture that Patty's brought here, so hopefully, we can get a few wins the next few games and get rolling," Barzal said on Monday morning. "But the actual culture that Patty's brought here is unlike anything I've been a part of. I think he's just such an honest guy and has a ton of belief in everything.

“He holds everybody accountable, and like I said, just that honesty, that willingness to hold everybody accountable, not just from him, but putting it on the players to hold each other accountable, I think it’s been really beneficial for us as a group and as people.”

Roy has always been known for the energy he brings and how much he really hates losing. But one thing Barzal, the players, and even us media members have learned is that Roy is the king of positivity. 

“I think people may not know that Patty is super positive," Barzal said. "He brings a ton of energy. Every day is a new day, and every day is a day to get better. 

"It doesn't matter whether we win or lose. The next day, Patty comes in with a lot of energy, and he's very vocal and likes to teach. So, yeah, I think he's been great.”

Another thing the players and we have noticed is that he does not hide his feelings.

“I'd say the biggest takeaway would probably be Patrick is a stand-up guy," Barzal said. "He speaks the truth, and I think that has translated within our locker room, just guys being honest with each other. I think just his overall mindset that he has about winning and culture and everything, it's been really beneficial for this group.”

Professional sports are a result-driven business, but culture is an important factor in achieving those results. Given the lack of success this season, a roster shakeup at the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline and the 2025 NHL Draft seems likely. 

However, if there is to be a complete culture change or continued growth, the players signed to long-term deals will need to lead the charge. 

Barzal, who is in the second season of an eight-year deal worth $9.15 million annually, will have to be the biggest leader in that regard. 

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