Montreal Canadiens Top Prospect Reportedly Headed to the NHL Sooner Than Expected

As the American college hockey campaign comes to a close, Canadiens fans are looking for word on what the future holds for goalie prospect Jacob Fowler.

Something for sure: Fowler, taken 69th by Montreal in 2023, will forego the rest of his college eligibility and report to the Canadiens once the season finishes for Boston College.

He's been one of the two top goaltenders in the NCAA the last two seasons and has very little more to do at that level, other than help guide B.C. to an NCAA title.

Some of the Canadiens fans think Fowler is the future of the team's goaltending, but it's too early to say that until he gets a chance to face professional-level competition.

His availability will be contingent on how long the NCAA tournament, beginning next weekend, keeps Boston College going. In case B.C. goes out early, he could be sent up for the final nine games with the Canadiens or Laval Rocket.

If they make it to the Frozen Four (April 10 and 12), he'd have a couple of games left with either club. With Montreal's current playoff push, and with Sam Montembeault and Jakub Dobes in goal, Fowler won't play for the Habs right away.

Laval, which is bound for the playoffs anyway, has Cayden Primeau playing perhaps the best hockey of his existence, but Fowler may still be given ice time.

Despite Primeau's mastery in the AHL (16-2 record, 2.09 GAA, and last week's shutout against Toronto), Fowler may still be given a start, or an even bigger role, based on situations.