Montreal Canadiens Adjust Goaltending Strategy
“What that tells me is that he won’t be back in 26-27,” stated Samuel Montembeault, reflecting on his uncertain future with the Montreal Canadiens. This remark comes in light of the team’s recent decision to recall Jacob Fowler from Laval on March 11, 2026.
Montembeault, who has been part of the Canadiens organization since October 2, 2021, is currently in his fifth season with the team. Despite being neither injured nor ill, his inconsistent performances have led to speculation about his role moving forward.
The Canadiens currently hold a record of 35-18-10 and sit with 80 points in the standings, but Montembeault’s season record of 10-8-4, coupled with a goals-against average of 3.43 and an .872 save percentage, has raised concerns. In his last two starts, he allowed nine goals on 59 shots, including four goals in a loss to the Islanders and six in a loss to the Ducks.
Renaud Lavoie noted, “Jacob Fowler’s recall is not related to any injury (or sickness) to another Canadiens goalie,” indicating that the decision is more about performance than health. This shift in the goaltending hierarchy has been described as a significant change for the team.
As the regular season progresses, with only 19 games left, the pressure mounts on Montembeault to improve his performance. The recall of Fowler, who has achieved 21 wins this season, signals a potential shift in strategy for the Canadiens as they aim to solidify their playoff position.
Montembeault’s recent struggles have been characterized as a sign of failure for the Quebec veteran, who has faced challenges throughout the season. The team’s management will be closely monitoring the situation as they navigate the final stretch of the season.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding Montembeault’s future with the Canadiens, but the implications of Fowler’s recall are clear: the team is looking for a more reliable presence in goal as they push for a successful conclusion to the season.