Photo credit: Thomas Salus-Imagn Images
The tension was palpable last night in the heated matchup between the Montreal Canadiens and the New Jersey Devils.
After star player Jack Hughes scored the Devils’ second goal, TVA Sports cameras captured a very revealing moment from goaltender Jakub Dobes.
The goalie showed strong emotion and clear frustration following the goal.
Upon closer review, it became clear his frustration was not directed at himself or the officials, but rather at teammate Zachary Bolduc—at least based on what is currently circulating.
All signs point to the goalie criticizing the forward’s defensive coverage on the play that led to Hughes’ goal.
It must be said that Dobes was absolutely right, and that sequence was poor overall for the Montreal Canadiens.
Accountability and competitive standards driving the Canadiens’ culture
By the way, this is far from being viewed as a negative internal conflict. Quite the opposite!
This reaction is actually being seen very positively!
Similar to Cole Caufield’s reaction toward Bolduc on the same play, Dobes is making it clear he expects full effort from his teammates on every shift.
This is a very good sign and reinforces that the players are highly competitive and willing to hold each other accountable in the heat of the moment.
This is exactly how a championship team should behave.
It’s precisely this type of attitude, where standards are high, that allows a young team to take a crucial step in its development.
Martin St-Louis’ group wants to win, and that requires flawless effort from all five players on the ice to support their goaltender at all times!
Watch the sequence here, along with Dobes’ reaction:
Jakub Dobes, 24, is a 6-foot-5 goaltender who was selected by the Montreal Canadiens in the fifth round of the 2020 NHL Draft.
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Jakub Dobes’ strong gesture toward Zachary Bolduc after Devils’ second goal draws attention
Do you like seeing Jakub Dobes show his emotions and demand greater accountability from his teammates?