Canadiens Goalie Needs To Have Big Bounce-Back Year
Samuel Montembeault is entering a crucial 2026-27 season. After disappointing heavily last season with the Montreal Canadiens, there is no question that he needs to have a bounce-back year.
Montembeault struggled in a major way in 2025-26, as he posted an .872 save percentage and a 3.43 goals-against average in 25 games. His struggles also led the Canadiens to assign him to the Laval Rocket on a conditioning loan.
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Montembeault was just unable to heat back up last season, and it led him to go from Montreal’s starting goalie to their third string netminder. Now, with the 29-year-old entering the final season of his contract, it is clear that he needs to bounce back this season.
If Montembeault can perform better this season, it would create a path for the Canadiens to find a new home for him. With the Canadiens having Jakub Dobes and Jacob Fowler, it is clear that Montembeault could use a fresh start.
It is also important for Montembeault to perform well this season because he is a pending unrestricted free agent. If he has a solid season, it will help his chances of landing a nice contract if he hits the market.
Due to this, there is a lot of pressure on Montembeault this season. He needs to take advantage of any opportunity he gets, and it will be interesting to see if he can do just that.
