Jan 28, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens goalie Jakub Dobes (75) stands behind goalie Sam Montembeault (35) during warm-up before the game against the Winnipeg Jets at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

The Montreal Canadiens have made a last-minute announcement. Head coach, Martin St-Louis, has decided to name Jakub Dobes as the starting goaltender for Sunday night’s game against Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers.

Does this mean Samuel Montembeault has fallen to third on the Canadiens’ depth chart?

Martin St-Louis causes a surprise and once again turns his back on Samuel Montembeault

I’m really surprised, honestly. I truly expected Montembeault to get his net back tonight.

With Jakub Dobes in net tonight for the Habs vs the Oilers:

Sam Montembeault hasn’t started a game since Dec. 2

– HabsOnReddit

Let’s just say that speaks volumes.

St-Louis no longer has confidence in Montembeault, and Dobes has moved ahead of him in the hierarchy.

Also it will be Montembeault and not Jacob Fowler who will serve as backup goalie to Dobes.

Sam Montembeault, 29 years old, has a record of 5-6-1 this season, with a goals-against average of 3.65 and a save percentage of .857.

Jacob Fowler, 21 years old, has a record of 1-0-1 this season, with a goals-against average of 3.42 and a save percentage of .894.

I’m really looking forward to seeing when Fowler will be thrown back into the mix, but personally, the loss against the New York Rangers did absolutely-nothing to cool me off on Fowler.

Also, the Canadiens will make lineup changes, as Arber Xhekaj and Jared Davidson will be scratched. Jayden Struble draws in and will play on the third defense pair with Engström.

Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics

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Canadiens reveal starting goaltender, confirm key lineup changes for crucial game vs. Oilers

Do you like the decision to start Dobes?