Born in St. Albert, Alberta, Joyal learned to play ice hockey on a frozen river downhill from his home.
Joyal signed on with the Detroit Red Wings and began his pro career with the Edmonton Flyers of WHL in 1960–61.
Joyal suited up for 47 games the next year and helped the Wings reach the 1964 Stanley Cup Finals.
His winning goal against Toronto Maple Leafs' Johnny Bower gave his team a 3–2 edge in a series they failed to close out.
After being chosen in the WHA General Player Draft, Joyal played four years with the Edmonton Oilers.