Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
We’ve just received an interesting announcement from the Laval Rocket, and the connection to the Samuel Montembeault situation is obvious.
When the Rocket brings in a goaltender from Trois-Rivières, it’s rarely just to sit on the bench.
And in the last few minutes, the Laval Rocket announced the recall of the number-one goaltender for the Trois-Rivières Lions, Hunter Jones.
“Goaltender Hunter Jones has been recalled from the Trois-Rivières Lions. – Laval Rocket
Are the Montreal Canadiens on the verge of officially recalling Samuel Montembeault from the Laval Rocket?
It certainly looks that way, considering the Rocket has just recalled a goaltender.
Hunter Jones, 25, has been logging heavy minutes with the Lions, posting an 8-2-0 record in 12 games. He also had a standout weekend, including a 3-0 shutout with 27 saves.
Montembeault, 29, hasn’t simply disappeared from the Canadiens’ plans. This is a specific assignment, and the window is short. Under the usual rules of a conditioning loan, it can’t drag on indefinitely, which forces a decision fairly quickly.
If Laval wants to have two goaltenders available, recalling Jones could be a way to stabilize the chain, especially if Montreal plans to take Montembeault back soon.
In other words, Jones’ recall is a very strong indication that the Canadiens appear to be on the verge of recalling Montembeault.
Montembeault has also already played with the Rocket recently. He made two starts in Cleveland, losing both games by scores of 2-0 and 5-2. Those outings served their intended purpose: helping him get back into rhythm, see how his body responded, and prepare for a return to the NHL routine.
Last time, this type of Jones recall pointed directly to what came next for the Montreal Canadiens (and the clue proved accurate).
I’ll repeat it: don’t be surprised if Samuel Montembeault is recalled by the Canadiens within the next few hours.
It also seems to indicate that Jacob Fowler is staying in the NHL.
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Latest roster move strongly hints at what’s coming for Samuel Montembeault and the Canadiens
Will Samuel Montembeault be recalled by the Montreal Canadiens on Friday?