In recent weeks, the Montreal Canadiens have faced a pressing question about their goaltending strategy. With Carey Price out of the lineup, the focus has shifted to determining who will take the lead position in net.
Current Goaltending Situation
General Manager Kent Hughes addressed the status of goaltender Samuel Montembeault, emphasizing that the best-performing goalie will get the most ice time. This raises the question: who currently holds the number one spot for the Canadiens?
Jacob Fowler Leads the Pack
Since his call-up from the Laval Rocket on December 9, Jacob Fowler has emerged as a primary option. He has started in nine of the last sixteen games, significantly more than his peers.
- Fowler started against major division rivals including Boston, Detroit, and Tampa Bay.
- He has taken on critical matches after the Christmas break and following long trips.
Head Coach Martin St-Louis praised Fowler’s composure, noting his ability to handle pressure despite his limited NHL experience.
The Two-Person Goalie Rotation
As Fowler has taken charge, Montembeault’s recent performance has been under scrutiny. Montembeault played only four games since December 1, indicating he may not currently be the team’s primary choice.
Meanwhile, Daniil Dobeš has struggled to find consistent playing time, having started once in the last eight games. This lack of action raises concerns about his development and future with the team.
Goaltender Statistics
The current distribution of games for the three goaltenders is as follows:
| Goaltender | Games Played | Recent Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Jacob Fowler | 9 | Strong performance, gaining confidence in big games |
| Daniil Dobeš | 3 | Inconsistent play, facing challenges in net |
| Samuel Montembeault | 4 | Struggling to regain form |
Hughes acknowledged that maintaining three goaltenders is not ideal. However, the current strategy may continue into the Olympic break and beyond. The performance of each goalie will ultimately dictate the future decisions of the Canadiens’ management.
As the season progresses, the Canadiens must navigate this complex situation to provide the best chances for success on the ice.
