The Montreal Canadiens have made a significant change in their coaching staff, announcing the dismissal of goalie coach Eric Raymond. This decision comes as the team’s goaltending performance this season has not met expectations.
Interim Coach Appointment
Following the dismissal of Eric Raymond, Marco Marciano has been appointed as the interim goalie coach. He will oversee goaltending duties through the remainder of the season.
Goaltending Struggles
- Samuel Montembeault: Record of 9-8-2, with an .868 save percentage and 3.46 goals-against average.
- Jakub Dobes: Record of 16-5-3, with an .890 save percentage and 2.96 goals-against average in 23 games.
Both goaltenders have failed to hit the .900 save percentage mark this season, prompting substantial concern among the coaching staff.
Recent Developments
Montembeault’s performance was so concerning that he underwent an AHL conditioning stint with the Laval Rocket in December. He participated in two games there before returning to the Canadiens.
In another move, rookie goaltender Jacob Fowler was recalled in December. His record for the Canadiens included four wins and four losses in ten appearances, along with a .902 save percentage and a goals-against average of 2.62. He was returned to Laval on January 16.
Current Standing
As of Wednesday, the Canadiens occupy the top wild-card position in the Eastern Conference. They are tied on points with the Buffalo Sabres for third place in the Atlantic Division, although they have one game in hand.
