Canadiens Face Goaltending Issues This Season

Montreal Canadiens head coach Martin St-Louis stated that both goaltenders, Samuel Montembeault and Jakub Dobes, would play a game in the first week following the Olympic break. Montembeault faced the New York Islanders, allowing four goals on 26 shots, resulting in an .846 save percentage.

Meanwhile, Dobes played against the Washington Capitals, allowing only two goals to Alexander Ovechkin, saving 27 of 29 shots for a .931 save percentage. The Canadiens won with Dobes in net but lost with Montembeault, suggesting a lack of confidence in the latter's performance.

St-Louis is expected to decide who will start against the San Jose Sharks after these initial games. The Canadiens have six back-to-backs remaining in the season, indicating both goaltenders will see action in the coming weeks.

The ongoing goaltending dilemma is impacting the Canadiens' performance and strategy as they chase playoff positioning.