The Montreal Canadiens appear well-positioned for the upcoming NHL season with their goaltending tandem of Samuel Montembeault and Jakub Dobeš. After years of searching for stability in the crease since Carey Price's decline, these two goalies offer a blend of experience and potential that could significantly benefit the team.
Montembeault, a local Quebec native, has evolved into a reliable starting goalie for the Canadiens. His journey with the team began in 2021 when he was picked up off waivers. Over time, he has demonstrated consistent improvement, earning the trust of the coaching staff and the affection of the fans. In the 2024-25 season, Montembeault started in 61 games, achieving a 31-24-7 record. While his save percentage (SV%) was .902, his performance improved as the season progressed, with his underlying statistics placing him among the league's best in goals saved above expected. Specifically, he ranked fourth among NHL starters with at least 40 games played, boasting a 24.6 in goals saved above expected. Montembeault's solid play earned him a spot on Canada's team for the 4 Nations Face-Off, and he is in contention for a spot on the Canadian Olympic squad. Entering the second year of a three-year contract with an average annual value of $3.1 million, the Canadiens are counting on Montembeault to continue his upward trajectory and provide stability in net.
Dobeš, on the other hand, represents the Canadiens' future in goal. The 24-year-old impressed during the 2024-25 season, earning a two-year, one-way contract worth $965,000 annually. Dobeš is viewed by some as a goaltender in the mold of Canadiens legends like Ken Dryden and Carey Price, possessing a large frame and excellent ability to take away angles. After Montembeault sustained an injury during the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Dobeš stepped in and secured the team's lone win of the playoff. Thrown into action in an intense playoff game against the Washington Capitals, Dobeš made seven saves on eight shots to help Montreal secure a 6-3 victory. Dobeš's strong NHL debut has positioned him as a potential candidate for Czechia's 2026 Olympic roster.
The Canadiens' management is optimistic about their goaltending situation, recognizing the importance of a strong tandem to lead the team out of its rebuild. With Montembeault as the established starter and Dobeš pushing for more playing time, the Canadiens have a competitive and capable duo in net. The team also has several promising goaltending prospects in their system, including Jacob Fowler, who is considered the "heir apparent" in goal, and other young talents like Alexis Cournoyer and Vladislav Volokhin. However, Fowler and Volokhin are still a few seasons away from being NHL-ready. The organization's approach to goaltender development is patient, allowing prospects to develop at their own pace without rushing them into the NHL.
Overall, the Canadiens appear to be in a favorable position with Montembeault and Dobeš leading their goaltending efforts. Montembeault's steady presence and Dobeš's emerging talent provide a solid foundation for the team's success.
