The Montreal Canadiens experienced what might have been their most disappointing performance of the season Tuesday night, falling 5-1 to the Los Angeles Kings at Bell Centre. Despite the lopsided loss, the Canadiens maintained their position in first place in the Atlantic Division with a 10-4-2 record.
Goaltending Controversy Emerges
Head coach Martin St. Louis's decision to stick with Samuel Montembeault as his primary goaltender proved costly against the Kings. Montembeault's statistics took another hit, dropping to 4-4-1 with a 3.52 goals-against average and .861 save percentage following the defeat.
The contrast with backup Jakub Dobes couldn't be more striking. Dobes has compiled an impressive 6-0-1 record with a 2.25 GAA and .920 save percentage, creating what many observers see as a clear goaltending controversy.
Veteran Perspectives on the Situation
On this week's Hockey Inside/Out Show, former Canadiens teammates and 1986 Stanley Cup champions Rick Green and Brian Skrudland provided their analysis of the team's goaltending dilemma. Skrudland, filling in for regular panelist Chris Nilan, joined Gazette reporter Stu Cowan to break down the concerning performance.
The panel also discussed Dobes's emotional reaction after his last start - a 4-3 overtime loss to the New Jersey Devils - where the rookie netminder was seen shedding tears, and what that display of emotion might mean to his teammates.
Broader Team Concerns
Beyond the goaltending discussion, Green and Skrudland examined other areas of concern for the Canadiens. They focused on Jake Evans's team-worst minus-9 differential and whether this should raise alarms given his role as a defensive-minded center.
Skrudland, who played a similar defensive role during his 15-year NHL career, provided unique insight into the significance of the plus/minus statistic and how it reflects on a player's defensive responsibilities.
The former champions also shared what they appreciate most about Martin St. Louis's coaching style and how his approach might help the team navigate through this challenging period despite their strong overall record.
