The Montreal Canadiens have exceeded expectations through the first two months of the season. However, management continues to evaluate every aspect of the roster to determine if improvements can be made.
One particular position has drawn attention, despite the team’s solid overall performance. The goaltending tandem has been adequate but not exceptional.
A prominent insider recently revealed that Montreal is exploring whether an upgrade between the pipes makes sense as they attempt to solidify their playoff positioning.
Insider Reports Canadiens Gauging Goaltending Market
The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta addressed Montreal’s goaltending situation during his Inside Sports segment. The insider revealed that the Canadiens are, at the very least, exploring options that might be available if they decide to make a move.
“We’ve started to hear that they’re at the very least just gauging the market to see what options may be available to them if they do decide to do something in net,” Pagnotta reported.
The comments suggest Montreal hasn’t committed to making a move but wants to understand what’s available. GM Kent Hughes is doing his due diligence by exploring the market rather than assuming the current tandem is sufficient for a playoff run.
Sam Montembeault has been Montreal’s primary netminder this season. The 29-year-old has provided steady performances while logging heavy minutes. However, questions remain about whether he can maintain that level through a full season and potential playoff series.
Jakub Dobes serves as the backup but has struggled with consistency throughout his NHL career. His save percentage and goals-against average have been mediocre, creating uncertainty about whether Montreal can trust him in important games.
The Canadiens’ interest in exploring the goaltending market makes sense given their unexpected competitiveness. When rebuilding teams suddenly find themselves in playoff contention, management must decide whether to add pieces or maintain the current trajectory.
Montreal appears willing to consider upgrades if the right opportunity presents itself. A few goaltenders could potentially become available before the trade deadline. Teams falling out of playoff races might be willing to move veteran netminders on expiring contracts.
Montreal has draft picks and prospects to construct competitive offers if it identifies a target. However, Pagnotta’s report suggests the Canadiens remain in the information-gathering stage rather than actively pursuing specific targets.
Hughes wants to know what’s available and at what cost before deciding whether making a move makes sense. Whether Montreal ultimately pulls the trigger on a goaltending upgrade depends on multiple factors.
If Montembeault continues performing well and the team keeps winning, management might decide against disrupting the current chemistry. However, having explored the market, they are now positioned to act quickly if circumstances change.