Jacob Fowler Revels in Return to Canadiens' Crease with Stellar Performance
Montreal Canadiens rookie goaltender Jacob Fowler has expressed sheer delight at being back in the NHL net, following an impressive 32-save performance that secured a 3-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators on Wednesday night. The young netminder, recently recalled from the AHL's Laval Rocket, emphasized the perpetual chase for perfection in his craft, noting it's what keeps the game thrilling despite its elusive nature.
Slafkovsky Credits Fowler for Saving Face in Critical Moment
As accolades continue to pour in for Fowler's standout showing, teammate Juraj Slafkovsky acknowledged the goaltender potentially spared him from an embarrassing scenario. With the Canadiens clinging to a one-goal lead and Senators goalie Linus Ullmark pulled for an extra attacker, Slafkovsky astonishingly missed an open net opportunity.
"I think Fowler was great," Slafkovsky remarked after Friday's practice in Brossard. "He looked calm and made some huge saves there at the end. I could have scored there into the empty net. I missed, obviously. He saved me."
Fowler's Heroics and Upcoming Goaltending Decisions
Fowler, rapidly becoming a fan favorite in Montreal, stopped the final 23 shots he faced against Ottawa, including six crucial saves in the last 1:44 of play. His return to the NHL came after a morning recall, showcasing remarkable poise under pressure.
Despite Fowler's heroics, Jakub Dobes is slated to start Saturday's home game against the San Jose Sharks at the Bell Centre. Head coach Martin St. Louis has not officially announced the starter for Sunday's matchup with the Anaheim Ducks, but Fowler is widely expected to return to the crease. This leaves the inconsistent Samuel Montembeault as the odd man out temporarily.
Overcoming Illness and Previous NHL Experience
Fowler's performance against Ottawa was particularly noteworthy considering he missed three weeks of Laval's season due to a severe flu virus. He returned to the Rocket just last Friday, making 35 saves in a 4-2 win. The goaltender admitted he had never been that sick before, though the source of the virus remains unknown.
Earlier this season, Fowler spent six weeks with the Canadiens when Montembeault and Dobes were struggling, posting a 4-4-2 record with a 2.62 goals-against average and .902 save percentage. His highlights included a 31-save shutout against Pittsburgh on December 20, though he lost his final two starts before being returned to Laval.
Fowler's Mindset and Calm Demeanor
The 21-year-old netminder believes he's better prepared for this NHL stint, arriving as the Canadiens have seemingly rediscovered their form after rough outings in San Jose and Anaheim last week.
"This is part of the ups and downs of the pro hockey lifestyle," Fowler reflected on Friday. "I'm just trying to stay even-keeled and enjoy every second of it. I feel like I'm the same kid with the same head on my shoulders. It's nice to have gone through it, but I feel like I'm a part of this group."
Unlike Dobes' unorthodox style or Montembeault's unpredictability, Fowler consistently displays remarkable positioning and composure. He rarely shows emotion, though he did pump his fist after the Ottawa win, acknowledging the chaotic final moments.
"I have a lot of trust in this group," Fowler explained. "They allow me to be calm and trust every guy out there. Maybe sometimes with the boys I'll get a little fired up and be a little energetic. There's so many things going on in the game. The last thing guys want to see is me being out of control."
Looking Ahead with Realistic Expectations
While Fowler appears likely to remain with the Canadiens for the remainder of the season, he's taking nothing for granted, focusing instead on daily improvement and team contribution.
"I'm just trying to be the best version of me every day," he stated. "You're always chasing perfection, knowing you're not going to get it. That's what keeps it exciting. There's always something to keep striving for."
Meanwhile, Cole Caufield, the Canadiens' leading scorer who missed Wednesday's game with the flu, practiced on Friday and appears healthy enough to return against the Sharks. Alexandre Texier was back among the extra forwards alongside Joe Veleno and Patrik Laine, while Jayden Struble served as the seventh defenceman.
