Montreal Canadiens’ 2025-26 Player Report Card: Goaltenders

More importantly, Dobes showed consistency and composure in high-pressure situations. He didn’t just win games; he gave the Canadiens stability in net at a time when they needed it most. His ability to step into a bigger role and maintain his level of play suggests that he could be more than just a backup moving forward. At the very least, he has positioned himself as a reliable option who can handle meaningful minutes.

Jacob Fowler: A-

Jacob Fowler also receives an A-minus, and his season might be even more impressive when you consider the context. Fowler was not expected to play in Montreal at all this season, let alone make an impact at the NHL level. However, due to inconsistencies in the crease, he was given an opportunity, and he made the most of it. Fowler posted a 9-6-2 record, along with a strong 2.43 goals-against average and a .908 save percentage. Those numbers stand out, especially for a 21-year-old goaltender making his first appearances in the league. 

Fowler looked calm, technically sound, and confident in his positioning. While he didn’t play as many games as Dobes, he showed flashes of high-end potential that should excite the Canadiens organization. His performances suggest that he could develop into a future starter if his progression continues. At the very least, he proved that he belongs at this level and can handle NHL shooters, even at a young age.

Samuel Montembeault: C-

On the other end of the spectrum, Montembeault finishes with a C-minus, reflecting a difficult and disappointing season. Montembeault entered the season as the clear number-one goalie, expected to build on previous performances and provide stability for a young team. Instead, he struggled to find consistency from the start. His final numbers, 10-8-4 record, 3.43 goals-against average, and a .872 save percentage, highlight just how challenging the season was for him. 

Beyond the statistics, the biggest issue was his inability to hold onto the starting role. As Dobes and Fowler began to perform, Montembeault gradually lost the net, eventually becoming the third option. For a veteran who was expected to lead the crease, that represents a significant step back. While it’s important to recognize that goaltending can be unpredictable and that confidence plays a huge role, this season raises serious questions about Montembeault’s future with the team.

Overall, the Canadiens’ goaltending situation became a story of transition and opportunity. Dobes and Fowler took advantage of the chances given to them and showed that the organization has promising options in net moving forward. Neither has fully established himself as a clear-cut number one goalie just yet, but both demonstrated that they can perform at the NHL level and handle important moments. Meanwhile, Montembeault’s struggles shifted the dynamic entirely, accelerating what may have already been an inevitable changing of the guard.