“Has Samuel Montembeault played his last game in a #GoHabsGo jersey?” This question, posed by Wayne Hutson, encapsulates the growing uncertainty surrounding the Montreal Canadiens goaltender’s future with the team. As the Canadiens navigate a challenging season, Montembeault’s performance and contract status have become focal points in discussions among fans and analysts alike.
Montembeault started the 2025-26 season on a high note, boasting a perfect 6-0-0 record and an impressive .930 save percentage in October. However, as the season progressed, his performance took a downturn, culminating in a disappointing .872 save percentage. This decline has led to speculation about whether he will remain with the Canadiens, especially with the emergence of Jakub Dobes, who has been outperforming him this season.
In light of these developments, the Canadiens have made significant changes to their coaching staff, including the firing of goaltending coach Eric Raymond and the promotion of Marco Marciano. These moves signal a desire for a fresh approach, particularly as the team looks to bolster their goaltending situation. The Canadiens are reportedly considering trading Montembeault, potentially for a mid-round pick, as they aim to avoid losing him for nothing.
Montembeault has played a total of 231 NHL games, and his experience could be a valuable asset to any team. “Montembeault holds a key advantage with his experience, having played 231 NHL games,” an analyst noted, highlighting the potential value he could bring in a trade. The Canadiens are also in search of a veteran goalie to back up Dobes next season, further complicating Montembeault’s standing within the organization.
As discussions continue, fans are left to ponder the implications of Montembeault’s potential departure. The Sick Podcast recently posed a thought-provoking question: “Do you agree with @TonyMarinaro and Pierre that Montembeault is done with the Habs or with @BWildeMTL that his time is not done yet?” This reflects the divided opinions among supporters regarding his future.
Despite his struggles, Montembeault’s early-season success and the Canadiens’ reluctance to lose him without compensation suggest that he may still have a chance to prove himself. However, details remain unconfirmed regarding whether he will be given a final opportunity during training camp.
As the Canadiens weigh their options, the fate of Samuel Montembeault hangs in the balance. With trade rumors swirling and performance evaluations ongoing, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds in the coming weeks.
