Canadiens face potential goaltending dilemma

The Montreal Canadiens are facing significant goaltending challenges as they approach the upcoming season. As of mid-July, Samuel Montembeault remains on the roster, and the team could carry three NHL-caliber goaltenders again.

Last season, Montembeault struggled with a 10-8-4 record, a 3.43 goals-against average, and an .872 save percentage, leading to Jacob Fowler's early call-up. The young netminder proved himself, recording a 9-6-2 record, a 2.43 GAA, and a .908 SV in 17 games.

Jakub Dobes ended the season with a 29-10-4 record, a 2.78 GAA, and a .901 SV, earning a three-year contract extension worth a $5,357,575 average annual value. The Canadiens are now in win mode, needing consistent performance in net.

Montembeault's past performance has raised concerns about the team's trust in him, especially since he often struggled early in games, affecting team morale. The Canadiens may consider a Dobes-Fowler tandem, but sending Montembeault to the AHL could see him claimed on waivers, making it a risky decision.

The report emphasizes the urgency for the Canadiens to solidify their goaltending situation ahead of the season, as they seek improved performance and stability in net.