The Montreal Canadiens have officially announced the NHL debut of rookie goaltender Jacob Fowler. He is set to face the Pittsburgh Penguins in an eagerly awaited matchup. Fowler was called up from the AHL after the Canadiens suffered a significant 6-1 defeat to the Tampa Bay Lightning. Alongside Fowler, forward Owen Beck and defenseman Adam Engstrom also joined the team.
Jacob Fowler’s Performance and Background
This season, while with the Laval Rocket, Fowler has showcased impressive skills. In 15 AHL appearances, he achieved a record of 10 wins and 5 losses, boasting a .919 save percentage and a 2.09 goals-against average (GAA).
Fowler made his AHL debut last season, playing in three regular-season games and eight playoff contests, where he posted a 3-3 record with a .902 save percentage and a 2.48 GAA. His excellent performance helped the Laval Rocket reach the third round of the playoffs.
Recent Goaltending Struggles
The decision to recall Fowler comes in response to the struggles faced by both Samuel Montembeault and Jakub Dobes in net. Montembeault’s performance includes:
- 15 appearances: 5 wins, 6 losses, and 1 overtime loss
- .857 save percentage
- 3.65 GAA
On the other hand, Dobes has recorded:
- 17 appearances: 10 wins, 5 losses, and 2 overtime losses
- .887 save percentage
- 3.15 GAA
Historical Context
Fowler joins an esteemed list of previous Canadiens goaltenders who made their NHL debuts against the Penguins. Notable names include:
- Ken Dryden: Won 5-1 on March 14, 1971
- Patrick Roy: Won 5-3 on October 10, 1985
- Carey Price: Won 3-2 on October 10, 2007
Current Team Standing
The Canadiens enter this game having lost two straight. They currently occupy fifth place in the Eastern Conference wild card race. The team hopes that Fowler’s debut will reinvigorate their performance in the wake of recent defeats.
