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What Can Canadiens’ Fans Expect from Sam Montembeault?

Originally posted on Trade Talk Sports | By Old Prof | Last updated Oct 8, 2025 11:56 AM ET

As the Montreal Canadiens hit the road for the start of the 2025–26 season, all eyes will be on Sam Montembeault when he tends the crease against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Wednesday. Montembeault has emerged as Montreal’s No. 1 goalie, and after last season’s personal bests — 62 games played, 31 wins, and four shutouts — he’s earned every bit of that status.

Montembeault Has Been a Reliable Goalie for the Canadiens

Montembeault isn’t flashy, but he’s reliable. His numbers last year weren’t just good on paper. The underlying stats tell the story of a goaltender who can handle a heavy workload and keep a team in games. That consistency earned him a spot at the 4 Nations Face-Off and even consideration for Canada’s Olympic orientation camp. It’s clear he’s recognized around the league as more than just a capable starter — he’s a cornerstone for the Canadiens.

Looking ahead, Montembeault’s role will be crucial. Montreal opens the season on a back-to-back. Montembeault starts against Toronto, and Jakub Dobeš versus Detroit the following night — the team is leaning on him to set the tone early. If he can carry last season’s form into this one, it bodes well for the Canadiens’ playoff chances. I think he has the tools to be a top-10 netminder consistently: strong positioning, quick reflexes, and the mental resilience to handle the pressures of a playoff-calibre team.

For the Canadiens, Goalie Depth Matters

Depth behind him also matters. Jakub Dobeš and Kaapo Kähkönen provide a safety net, giving Montreal confidence that even if Montembeault hits a rough patch or needs a breather, the team isn’t left vulnerable. That’s a luxury the Canadiens haven’t always had. It could make the difference between a regular-season finish and a meaningful playoff run.

Canadian fans should take note: Montembeault isn’t just filling a position; he’s shaping the identity of the Canadiens this season. If he remains steady and the supporting netminders hold up, Montreal could finally have the goaltending stability it has long sought. Wednesday’s game isn’t just a test against Toronto. It’s also an early indicator of whether Montembeault can continue to anchor a team with real playoff aspirations.

This article first appeared on Trade Talk Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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