The Montreal Canadiens' goaltending situation has become a focal point of discussion this season, with Sam Montembeault's performance under scrutiny. Once considered a promising starter, Montembeault now finds himself with the Laval Rocket of the American Hockey League (AHL) on a conditioning stint. This assignment has sparked debate among fans and analysts regarding his future in the NHL.

Montembeault's assignment to Laval is not viewed as a punishment but rather as a strategic move by the Canadiens' management to allow him to address fundamental aspects of his game. These areas include positioning, timing, and consistency. The NHL's demanding schedule often leaves little room for focused practice, whereas Laval provides Montembeault with an environment to refine his mechanics and regain his mental composure.

Throughout the 2025-26 season, Montembeault has recorded 5 wins in 15 games, accompanied by a 3.65 goals-against average and a .857 save percentage. His struggles have led to him falling off the radar for consideration for Team Canada's 2026 Olympic roster. The Canadiens hope that this reset in Laval will allow Montembeault to rediscover the calm and steady presence that defined his strong performances in previous seasons.

General Manager Kent Hughes has stated that the solution to the team's goaltending issues lies within the organization. Despite Montembeault's struggles and the emergence of other options, the Canadiens' management still believes in his potential. Hughes expressed confidence that Montembeault and the other goalies will rise to the occasion and lead the team.

The Canadiens have also called up Jacob Fowler from Laval. Fowler's strong play in the AHL and his initial NHL performances have further complicated the goaltending situation. With the emergence of Fowler and the presence of Jakub Dobes, Montembeault's future with the Canadiens remains uncertain.

Some analysts suggest that Montembeault's conditioning stint could be a precursor to a potential trade. If Fowler and Dobes continue to perform well, the Canadiens may look to move Montembeault to another team. However, finding a trade partner may prove challenging given his current form.

Montembeault's current contract and market value add another layer to the situation. While a successful reset in Laval could restore him to a stable NHL backup role, his future with the Canadiens remains uncertain. The Canadiens must balance player development, roster stability, and asset management when making decisions about their goaltending situation.

Ultimately, Montembeault's stint in Laval represents a critical juncture in his career. It is an opportunity for him to regain his form and confidence, proving that he can still be a valuable asset to the Montreal Canadiens.