The Montreal Canadiens are facing a goaltending decision that could shape their surprising early-season success, with rookie netminder Jakub Dobes earning an opportunity to claim the number one role following his outstanding performance through the first quarter of the NHL season.
Stellar Numbers Tell the Story
Through the opening weeks of the campaign, the statistical comparison between Montreal's two goaltenders couldn't be more striking. Jakub Dobes has compiled an impressive 6-0-1 record with a 2.25 goals-against average and .920 save percentage, while veteran Samuel Montembeault has struggled to a 4-4-1 mark with a 3.52 GAA and .861 save percentage.
The divergence in performance became particularly evident during Tuesday night's 5-1 loss to the Los Angeles Kings, where Montembeault surrendered four goals on 25 shots before being pulled. The defeat highlighted growing concerns about the team's goaltending situation despite Montreal's strong 10-4-2 record that has them sitting atop the Atlantic Division.
Coach's Confidence vs. On-Ice Reality
Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis maintains public confidence in Montembeault, telling reporters after Wednesday's practice that his belief stems from the goaltender's "attitude, work ethic, and body of work." However, actions speak louder than words, and St. Louis confirmed that Dobes will start Thursday's game against the Dallas Stars at Bell Centre.
The coach emphasized this decision was planned before Tuesday's loss, noting Dobes hasn't played since last Thursday's 4-3 overtime defeat to the New Jersey Devils. Still, with the Boston Bruins tying Montreal in points after winning seven consecutive games, the timing appears right to ride the hot hand in goal.
Former Canadiens defenceman and assistant coach Rick Green offered sharp analysis during a conversation about Montembeault's struggles, observing that the goaltender has been playing "like he's waiting for something bad to happen." This assessment proved prophetic during the Kings game, when three quick second-period goals—including a disastrous giveaway to Kevin Fiala—sank Montreal's chances.
Navigating Montreal's Passionate Fanbase
The intense scrutiny of playing goal in hockey's most passionate market has clearly affected Montembeault, who acknowledged the challenges of dealing with fan reactions. "Especially on social media, you got to put that behind like I did on my Instagram," Montembeault said. "After a loss you can't go on there. There aren't many things that are said that are nice on there."
He described the Montreal experience candidly: "The fans are passionate here. Especially this year. With the expectations being higher, they expect us to win every game. It's not going to happen every game, but we need to be better, need to be more competitive. If we win here, it's the best place to win."
Meanwhile, Dobes brings a different emotional approach to the position. The 24-year-old made headlines after his last start in New Jersey when he became emotional speaking with media following the overtime loss. "Just some games mean to someone more than the others," Dobes explained. "I really took it personal that game and I feel like every game I play for this jersey I take it with pride and a lot of heart."
His teammates have embraced his passionate approach, with Dobes noting they've been "having fun with him about his reaction in New Jersey." When asked about potential chirping from opponents regarding his emotional display, Dobes responded with characteristic confidence: "They could. I like it, personally, when it gets more personal on that level." He added with a smile, "I also have Arber (Xhekaj) on my team, so I feel I'll be fine."
With only 23 games of NHL experience, Dobes represents both opportunity and uncertainty for the Canadiens. His outstanding numbers suggest he might be ready for an expanded role, but his limited track record means Montreal must proceed carefully with their surprising division lead at stake.
The upcoming schedule provides no relief, with the surging Bruins visiting Bell Centre on Saturday after facing Ottawa on Thursday. How St. Louis manages his goaltenders through this critical stretch could determine whether Montreal's unexpected early success becomes a sustained playoff push or fades as the season progresses.
