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What do you value most when you evaluate a offensive-defenseman? Transition, transition, transition. Jeremy Roy out of the QMJHL is a highly-skilled two-way defenseman that lives off the rush. Not a sniper like a Krug or Hamilton, Roy has great vision and projects as a strong playmaker, along with being a solid body in the defensive and neutral zones.
| Name | Origin | Age | Height | Weight | Pos. | League | Avg. Rank |
| Jeremy Roy | CAN | 17 | 6'0" | 183 | D | QMJHL | 19.2 |
Looked at in the same vein as a Drew Doughty or John Carlson, Jeremy Roy can create his own offense, breaking out of the zone by quickly pushing the puck up the ice and turning defense into scoring chances. His defensive ability makes him a solid NHL prospect, but his puck movement makes him a mid-1st round talent. Last season, Roy posted 43 points in 46 games, mostly behind his 38 assists--highest on the team among all defensemen.
Jeremy Roy is a gifted two-way defenceman that establishes his presence on the ice through playing authoritative hockey, with and without the puck. His absolute and total awareness of other players' positions on the ice is a testament to his incredible knowledge of the game. Roy possesses the intangibles of maturity and character that can't be taught, as well as the individual skill that turns heads every time he is on the ice. All-in-all, a highly intelligent defenceman that plays high-percentage hockey and is a catalyst for positive plays in all three zones. (Curtis Joe, EP 2014)
That said, his defensive skills are still impressive. His 6'0', 183lb. frame will undoubtedly grow as the soon-to-be 18-year-old matures. Don't let his shocking +/- fool you--Sherbrooke Phoenix as a team has had a horrific goal differential since the franchise was founded in 2012, and only four players total have had a positive rating since Roy joined the team in the start of the 2013-14 season.
But so far his size has been understated, mostly because he's very strong on his skates, and has an even stronger stick. Roy has great balance, welcomes physicality, and doesn't shy away from puck battles. Mentally, he's even better. JR has great poise, vision and hockey sense that allows him to make quick, smart plays in all three zones. Sometimes the best defense is offense, and when you can stay one step ahead of the forecheck with quick, precise passing, you don't always have to be the biggest dog in the fight.
An offensively gifted defenseman who is solid in the defensive zone…has a real smooth stride and is pretty mobile…very mature game with strong positioning and smart with the puck…tough to separate from it as he has a heavy stick…makes terrific passes and rarely has anything intercepted…has a good point shot as well and he gets it on net…has the vision and creativity to QB a PP…solid defensively, using his smarts and his strong stick to break up plays and take away chances…uses his strength on defense to play physically down low and contain his man…used in all situations…a big presence on the ice and slows down the play when the puck is on his stick. (Future Considerations - August 2014)
With the Bruins at 14, it may be unlikely they select Roy. There may be better defensive talent on the board at that time, and if not there's a whole slew of puck-moving blue liners. Depending on who you ask, it's a toss-up between Kylington and Roy, but an offensive-leaning two-way defenseman is never a bad thing to have. Boston might like Roy's toughness, strength and other intangibles.