By the Numbers: A Look Back at "The Trade" in '95
In this “By the Numbers” series, a focus has been on a variety of topics such as NHL jersey numbers, iconic stats (e.g., Gretzky’s 92-goal season; 80-goal club), and significant Stanley Cup years (e.g., ’75 Flyers). But when fans think about the number “95” in the storied history of the NHL, aside from a few jerseys (e.g., Matt Duchene, Oliver Ekman-Larsson), a significant night from back in ’95 quickly jumps to mind: December 2—the night the Montreal Canadiens, arguably, lost their identity.
The Melting Point
By 1995, Patrick Roy was the king of Montreal. He had delivered two Stanley Cups (1986, 1993) and was the backbone of the last Canadian team to win it all. But the arrival of head coach Mario Tremblay, a former teammate with whom Roy had a prickly relationship, created a powder keg.
It blew up during a home game against the Detroit Red Wings. Tremblay left Roy in net for nine goals. The humiliation was unerasable; Tremblay refused to pull him even as the score climbed. When Roy finally stopped a routine puck from far out, the Montreal crowd broke into a mocking cheer. Roy didn't take it sitting down—he raised his arms in a defiant, sarcastic "thank you" to the fans.
Video Recap: Patrick Roy Gets Traded by Canadiens to Avalanche
The Whisper
When Tremblay finally signaled for a goalie change, the drama moved to the bench. Roy didn't sit down. He marched past Tremblay and went straight to Montreal President Ronald Corey, who was sitting behind the bench. Leaning over, Roy uttered the words that would change the league: “It’s my last game in Montreal.” He walked back past Tremblay—the era was over.
The Aftermath
On December 6, 1995, the trade was finalized. Montreal sent Patrick Roy and captain Mike Keane to the Colorado Avalanche for Jocelyn Thibault, Martin Rucinsky, and Andrei Kovalenko. The results were perceived to be lopsided: Patrick Roy led the Avalanche to a Stanley Cup just months later in 1996, and another in 2001.
Cool Fact: Patrick Roy was inducted into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame (2004)
For this “By the Numbers” series, number “95” isn't just a year; it’s a monument to how a single night of star-powered ego, humiliation, and frustration can help shift the power of the entire league.