Report: Canadiens Set High Trade Price For Samuel Montembeault

Saturday, October 31, 2026
The Montreal Canadiens don’t feel pressure to trade goalie Samuel Montembeault when he returns from injury, according to The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta, who said Montreal is comfortable keeping all three goalies unless GM Kent Hughes is blown away by an offer.

“They’re going to be in wait-and-see mode with this,” Pagnotta said, adding it wouldn’t shock him if the Canadiens go with all three for the full season.

Three Goalies, No Urgency

Montembeault hasn’t played this season because of a lower-body injury, and he's expected back in November. 

He's also a pending free agent with a $3.15 million cap hit.

Rookie Jacob Fowler has played excellent in his absence, and Jakub Dobes, who signed a three-year extension before the season, is still trying to find his rhythm.

Pagnotta said Montreal’s original plan was for Montembeault to back up Dobes while Fowler developed.

Fowler's currently 6-1 with a .942 SV% and two shutouts this season, while Dobes is 2-2-2, with an ugly .853 SV% across six starts.

Montembeault won 31 games in 2024-25.

The Market

The Rangers are shopping for goaltending help and Montembeault is reportedly on their radar, due to losing Igor Shesterkin for the season.

There's also been speculation about a Devils fit earlier this week, though that's only speculation right now.

The Canadiens have the assets to make a move if they need an upgrade at another position.

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