What observers say
“Do you agree with @TonyMarinaro and Pierre that Montembeault is done with the Habs or with @BWildeMTL that his time is not done yet?” This question posed by The Sick Podcast encapsulates the uncertainty surrounding Samuel Montembeault’s future with the Montreal Canadiens. As the team navigates a challenging season, Montembeault’s performance has become a focal point for discussions about potential trades.
Montembeault started the 2025-26 season with remarkable promise, boasting a 6-0-0 record and a .930 save percentage in October. However, his fortunes have since changed dramatically, culminating in a disappointing .872 save percentage as the season progressed. This decline has prompted the Canadiens to consider their options, particularly as they look to bolster their goaltending lineup.
With Jakub Dobes emerging as a strong contender for the starting role, the Canadiens are reportedly contemplating trading Montembeault. The team is in search of a veteran goalie to back up Dobes next season, and Montembeault’s inconsistent performance may have sealed his fate. The Canadiens are keen on not losing Montembeault for nothing, especially given the precedent set last summer when Alex Nedeljkovic was traded for a third-round pick.
Montembeault has played a total of 231 NHL games, and his experience is seen as a valuable asset. As one observer noted, “Montembeault holds a key advantage with his experience, having played 231 NHL games.” However, his recent struggles have led to questions about whether he can reclaim his earlier form. The Canadiens have also made changes to their coaching staff, firing goaltending coach Eric Raymond and promoting Marco Marciano, which could influence Montembeault’s performance moving forward.
As the Canadiens weigh their options, the possibility of trading Montembeault for a mid-round pick is on the table. “A second-round pick for Montembeault?” one analyst speculated, highlighting the potential value that the Canadiens could extract from a trade. However, the exact return remains unclear, and details remain unconfirmed.
Looking ahead, the Canadiens face a pivotal moment in their decision-making process. Whether Montembeault will be given a final chance in training camp remains uncertain, adding to the intrigue surrounding his future with the team. As the trade deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Montembeault and the Canadiens as they navigate this critical juncture.
In summary, Samuel Montembeault’s time with the Montreal Canadiens may be nearing its end. With trade discussions heating up and the team seeking to improve their goaltending situation, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining Montembeault’s fate and the direction of the Canadiens’ roster.
