Flames Take Eric Roy with 135th pick

 

 

After the *ahem* interesting Kanzig pick in the third round, the Flames chose one of FN’s darkhorse targets in the 5th round in Eric Roy. A big defender with huge offensive numbers a year ago, Roy was considered a potential first round talent before the season started. Unfortunately, Roy’s offense took a step backwards and his undeveloped defensive game didn’t improve, sinking his stock considerably.

Like most 5th round picks, Roy is a project with significant holes in his game. Most scouting reports say he is lost in his own zone and won’t be able to progress as a pro until he can find his way while defending. On the other hand, Roy is also NHL sized (6’3", 190 pounds) and with 28 goals in his last two seasons it’s clear there is some offensive ability there.

Roy is worthwhile gamble near the end of the draft. If he can improve his defense, he could be a high impact player in the future. That’s a bigger "if" than many other guys who went earlier, but that’s the way it goes once you starting picking in the 100’s.