Surprise in Brossard as a new face joins the Canadiens on the ice

Kevin Mandolese entered Martin St-Louis’ Canadiens picture with his first summer skate in Brossard.

The newly signed goaltender joined a small group of Montreal players on the ice, giving the organization an early look at one of its newest depth options.

That individual attention stood out. Rather than taking part in a casual skate, Mandolese immediately received focused technical work as he began settling into his new surroundings.

Mandolese moved through drills beside Dobes while Marciano watched their positioning, footwork and movement around the crease.

Kevin Mandolese faces early test in Laval goalie battle

The session doesn’t determine where Mandolese will begin the season, but it gives him an early chance to become comfortable with the organization’s expectations.

He recently signed a one-year contract with the Laval Rocket, placing him directly into a competition for playing time with Montreal’s AHL affiliate.

That battle will become clearer during training camp. For now, every appearance in Brossard gives Mandolese another chance to make an impression before the formal evaluations begin.

The 25-year-old arrives with experience in the Colorado Avalanche and Ottawa Senators organizations. That background gives Laval another option in net, but it doesn’t guarantee a fixed role.

Dobes’ presence also added weight to the session. Mandolese wasn’t working alone with a development coach; he was sharing drills with a goalie already pushing for a larger place in Montreal’s plans.

That creates an immediate measuring stick. Mandolese can compare his pace, technique and preparation with someone competing closer to the NHL level.

Summer sessions rarely settle a depth chart, but they can shape first impressions. Mandolese used his first skate to begin that process with Marciano watching every detail.

His real opportunity arrives at camp, where the workload rises and the competition becomes direct. Until then, these Brossard sessions are his first chance to show where he fits.