The Montreal Canadiens' goaltending situation is a topic of much discussion and speculation, and the recent performance of Samuel Montembeault has only added fuel to the fire. With a 29-year-old Montembeault's contract set to expire after the upcoming season, the team faces a crucial decision regarding their future between the pipes.
Montembeault, who has been a steady presence for the Canadiens over the past three seasons, has seen his performance take a hit this year. His save percentages have dropped, and his record stands at 10-8-4 with a 3.43 GAA and a .872 save percentage. This decline has led some to question his future with the team, especially with the emergence of younger goalies like Jacob Fowler and Jakub Dobes.
Fowler, a 21-year-old rookie, has been making waves with his impressive performances. He showcased his talent in Ottawa, making 32 saves and earning the player of the game award. His strong play has earned him the trust of his teammates, who have been vocal about their support. Fowler's performance has been a stark contrast to Montembeault's struggles, and it's hard to ignore the potential for him to take over the No. 1 job.
Dobes, on the other hand, has been a solid contributor. His 11-1-2 record in the last 14 games has been instrumental in the Canadiens' success in the Atlantic Division. While Dobes may not have the same technical prowess as Fowler, his ability to battle and make acrobatic saves cannot be overlooked. The competition between the two young goalies is a healthy one, and it will be interesting to see how the team navigates this situation.
The Canadiens' decision to call up Fowler from the AHL's Laval Rocket was a strategic move that paid off. Fowler's performance in Ottawa was a clear indication of his potential, and it's hard to imagine him not getting another chance. The team's patience with Montembeault may have worn out, and the need for a fresh start could be the driving force behind the decision to trade him.
From a salary-cap standpoint, trading Montembeault would be a smart move. Fowler and Dobes have a combined salary-cap hit of just over $1.8 million, a significant reduction from the $10.5 million cap hit of former goalie Carey Price. This move would allow the Canadiens to allocate resources to other areas of the team, such as defense, where they may need to make strategic additions.
However, the impact of this decision on team chemistry is a concern. Montembeault is well-liked in the locker room, and pushing him aside in favor of Fowler could potentially affect the dynamics. But, as head coach Martin St. Louis pointed out, the team's success is paramount, and sometimes difficult decisions are necessary for the greater good.
In conclusion, the future of Samuel Montembeault with the Montreal Canadiens is uncertain. While his performance this season has been a letdown, the team's decision to trade him may be driven by the need for a fresh start and the potential for cost-saving measures. The emergence of Fowler and Dobes as strong contenders for the No. 1 job adds an exciting layer to the team's goaltending situation, and the Canadiens will need to carefully navigate this transition to ensure a successful outcome.
