Chris Tanev explains how new Leaf Nicolas Roy is ‘extremely underrated’ after first day of camp

Training camp is underway for the Toronto Maple Leafs as the team tries out different forward lines in preparation for the preseason.

Skating together on Thursday were new additions Nicolas Roy and Dakota Joshua alongside top Leafs prospect Easton Cowan. Bringing size, skill, experience, and youth, it’s a line with the potential to be very fun to watch.

And other Leafs are taking notice. Set to enter his second year in Toronto, veteran defenceman Chris Tanev had high praise for centreman Nicolas Roy in particular on Thursday.

“He’s a really good player, extremely underrated,” Tanev said, speaking to media after practice. “So responsible, great stick, and has way more skill than people here probably think. I’ve played against him for quite some time, played against him in playoffs, and I know how big he is, know how smart he is.”

He went on to praise Roy’s awareness on the ice, ability to move pucks, and long-range game, adding how the Quebec native manages to make it all “look effortless.”

In addition to Roy, Tanev spoke about the value of another size-add for the Leafs in Joshua, a 6’3″, 218 lb. winger looking for a bounce back season.

“Really big boy with some skill,” Tanev said. “He can put the puck in the net, so he’s going to help us a ton.”

Meanwhile, Tanev touched on another team getting hot in Toronto right now, as the Blue Jays close in on a playoff berth. A big baseball fan, Tanev is looking forward to seeing them hit the postseason.

“Playoff baseball is definitely some of the best sports you can watch,” the Toronto native said. “Every pitch, every little thing matters so much. Once that happens, I’ll be even more invested than I am.”

Tanev got the chance to go down to a couple games this summer, including finally meeting his ‘doppelganger’ in Kevin Gausman.