When the playoffs wrap up, Montreal Canadiens' GM Kent Hughes faces a crucial task: making space for Jacob Fowler on the roster. This likely means trading Samuel Montembeault and putting faith in the young talent.
Montreal's goaltending situation has been a hot topic this season. Samuel Montembeault had a tough year, and his ongoing struggles eventually affected Jakub Dobes, who initially shone in October with six wins and a .922 save percentage.
Now, with Montembeault sidelined, Dobes is proving his worth. With 26 wins in 37 starts, he’s secured the top goaltender spot. Martin St-Louis often emphasizes players being in the right role, and Dobes has certainly found his.
Montembeault was never pegged as the long-term solution, which is why he was given a three-year bridge deal. The plan was for Jacob Fowler to eventually take over, but Dobes has disrupted that narrative by leading all rookie netminders with 26 wins.
Initially, Fowler was set to spend the season with the Laval Rocket, but Montembeault’s decline changed those plans. Despite limited experience, Fowler has shown he belongs on the big stage.
Unless something drastic happens in the remaining games or playoffs, Hughes will likely move Montembeault this summer. Fowler has demonstrated he can handle the NHL pressure and continue to develop. By next season, Dobes will be 25 and Fowler 21-a young duo, but one with potential.
The Canadiens are moving beyond just developing players; they're aiming to win. While Dobes and Fowler are young, they have the best chance to bring victories to Montreal.
Sharing the goaltending duties isn’t new; the Boston Bruins thrived with Jeremy Swayman and Linus Ullmark splitting time. Dobes is under contract for another year before becoming a restricted free agent with arbitration rights, while Fowler will be an RFA after the 2028-29 season. This setup gives the Habs a cost-effective option in goal.
If both continue to excel, the Canadiens might face a decision down the road, but for now, they should fully commit to Dobes and Fowler. Fowler may be the future, but Dobes has earned his place in the conversation.