Montreal Canadiens make it official for Samuel Montembeault

TSN insider Darren Dreger offered his read on the situation, and his message was one of respect for a veteran who has been a steady presence in the Habs crease.

The math is simple but uncomfortable. Jakub Dobes, 24, grabbed the top job last season, while Jacob Fowler, 21, is widely seen as the long-term answer.

Montembeault, 29, slid down the depth chart during a rough 2025-26 and has been linked to trade talk ever since.

Montembeault did make the opening night roster as the backup after a strong camp, while Fowler was assigned to AHL Laval to play regularly.

That setup works for now, but it leaves Montreal carrying three capable goalies for two NHL jobs.

Montembeault is slated to reach unrestricted free agency next July, which makes this season the natural window to act. Waiting until summer could mean losing him for nothing, and his trade value will hinge on how he performs between now and the deadline.

Dreger's wording suggests the Canadiens would rather help Montembeault find a team where he can play than let him sit in a reduced role.

Contenders and clubs dealing with goaltending injuries or inconsistency could view a 29-year-old with starter experience as a useful addition at a reasonable price.

Montreal also has to weigh the optics inside the dressing room, where Montembeault has reportedly remained a supportive teammate through a difficult stretch.

For the Canadiens, the goal is to keep building a winning roster without burning bridges. Nothing is imminent, and the Canadiens are not forced to move anyone today.

If Dobes and Fowler continue to separate themselves, though, expect the conversation around Montembeault to move from rumor to real negotiation.

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