If Patrick Roy becomes the NHL's all-time winningest goaltender, it might be in a different uniform.

"If someone would ask me the question directly, 'Do I expect to be traded?' I would answer a different way," said Roy, reacting to a published report. "I do not expect to be traded."

Roy, who needs 30 victories to break Terry Sawchuk's NHL record of 447, is in the first year of a two-year contract that will pay him $7 million this season and $7.5 million in 2000-2001.

The contract has a no-trade clause that expires Dec. 31, prompting questions about Roy's future in Colorado. The Avalanche have a solid backup in 22-year-old prospect Marc Denis but have not openly indicated Roy will be traded.

"I'll be clear. It's not even an issue for us," coach Bob Hartley said. "I have a message for the real estate agents. Don't get excited. Don't waste your time."

Roy was quoted Monday as saying, "All I know is I won't be traded until at least Jan. 1."

He seemed surprised Tuesday when talk centered on his apparently uncertain future.

"Fears of being traded are there for every player in this league," Roy said. "I don't see that as a big issue."

Roy, in his 15th season, has led the Montreal Canadiens and Avalanche to Stanley Cup victories and is a strong candidate for the Hall of Fame after retirement.

Denis was Colorado's first-round draft pick in 1995.