Montreal Canadiens goaltender Samuel Montembeault has opened up about the value of a mental break, crediting time away from the intense pressure of his role with helping him rediscover his form. The revelation comes as the Habs continue to navigate the unusual situation of carrying three netminders on their roster.
A Much-Needed Reset
After a difficult start to the season, Montembeault was sent to the AHL's Laval Rocket for a two-game conditioning stint in mid-December. At that point, his record stood at 5-6-1 with a 3.65 goals-against average and an .857 save percentage. While he lost both games with Laval, he showed signs of improvement, stopping 47 of 52 shots for a .904 save percentage.
The 29-year-old then enjoyed the NHL's Christmas break, which provided a full 12-day pause. He returned to the Canadiens and promptly won his first two games back—both in overtime—making 52 saves on 57 shots for a .912 save percentage. Montembeault specifically highlighted the win in Florida, where he made 28 saves in a 3-2 OT victory over the Panthers on December 30, as a special moment, given he was drafted by the Panthers in that building in 2015.
The Three-Goalie Conundrum
The Canadiens' goaltending situation remains a prominent question mark. Before facing the Calgary Flames on January 7, 2026, the team held a 23-13-6 record and was just three points out of first place in the Atlantic Division. For that game, rookie Jacob Fowler got the start, as the team continues to carry Montembeault, Fowler, and Jakub Dobes.
General Manager Kent Hughes addressed the media on January 6, acknowledging the challenge. "Three goalies isn't ideal," Hughes stated. "I wouldn't expect any changes in the next 24 hours. We're playing five games in seven days. We're not worried about the goalies not getting action but, ideally, we wouldn't have three goalies long term." Hughes added that the goalie who performs best will see the most ice time.
The situation is complicated by contract logistics. Montembeault, who has one more season on his deal with a $3.15 million cap hit, would have to clear waivers to be sent to the AHL, while Fowler and Dobes would not.
Leadership and Looking Forward
Despite the internal competition for the starting job, Montembeault is embracing a leadership role. He recalled how veteran Jake Allen helped him when he was a younger player and aims to pay it forward. "I just want to always have a good attitude, trying to help these guys, too," Montembeault said. "They're super-talented young goalies... I'm going to try to be the same role model if I can with them."
Montembeault also addressed the disappointment of not being selected for Team Canada's Olympic roster for the Milano Cortina Games. He appreciated that Team Canada GM Doug Armstrong called him personally the day before the announcement. "I thought that was very nice of him," Montembeault said, adding he realized early in the season his play wouldn't warrant a spot.
Reflecting on the unique pressure of playing goal in Montreal, Montembeault referenced legendary Canadien Jacques Plante's famous quote about the spotlight on a goalie's mistake. While today's athletes also face social media criticism, Montembeault focuses on the overwhelming support. "I'm really excited to be back here with the team," he said. "It's a passionate fan base... I think we have the best fans in the league." With his mental battery recharged, Montembeault is now focused on winning back their full support with his play on the ice.
