What Does the Future Look Like in The Habs’ Net?

Every NHL team must carry two goaltenders at all times, and very rarely exceed that number. However, the Montreal Canadiens have gone against the grain so far this season, keeping three goalies on their active roster. Jake Allen, Samuel Montembeault and Cayden Primeau have all played for the Habs this year, and nobody is quite sure who their starter is in the wake of Carey Price’s pseudo-retirement. Jake Allen is the oldest player of the three, having had a fruitful run with the St. Louis Blues before coming to Montreal. He was Carey Price’s backup during their incredible Stanley Cup run, and signed an extension with the team.

He was expected to be the starting goaltender through the Canadians’ rebuild, coach Martin St. Louis saying that “you need guys that are willing to plant trees knowing they’ll never sit in the shade.” He has played 8 games this season, winning 3 and holding a .907 save percentage. Samuel Montembeault, who was claimed off of waivers by the bleu-blanc-rouge, was never expected to be contesting for the number one role. However, he has come into his own, and has started eight games this season, with an additional game after getting called in to replace a struggling Allen. He has 4 wins and a .908 save percentage. The defensively-atrocious Edmonton Oilers have allegedly expressed interest in acquiring Montembeault, an idea that has divided Habs fans. Many think that he’s the club’s future starter.

by Zackary Laberge Sports Editor

Then, there’s Cayden Primeau. Having only played 3 games and holding a single win, with an .885 save percentage, the former seventh round pick has not lived up to the ability that some fans see in him, at least on paper. However, some think that the stats don’t tell the whole story. He’s made some big saves and many of the goals that he has let in haven’t been his fault. Still, it’s unclear if he has a chance at being the Habs’ true number one goaltender. With prospects like Jakub Dobeš and Jacob Fowler still in the AHL and the NCAA respectively, with other goalies in the Montreal organization looking to impress, nobody knows who’ll be in front of the net in the next few seasons. It’s up to the players to step up and grab the brass ring that hangs above their heads.