Samuel Montembeault: A Trade Chip for the Canadiens’ Future?

As the future in net for the Montreal Canadiens increasingly appears to belong to the promising duo of Jacob Fowler and Jakob Dobes, a burning question is on the minds of fans: what is the real value of Samuel Montembeault on the trade market? If Kent Hughes decides to move forward with the next stage of his rebuild, the Quebec-born goaltender could become a highly sought-after piece.

Evaluating Montembeault’s Trade Value

To assess what Montembeault could bring back in a trade, it’s crucial to look at recent transactions. Last summer, the San Jose Sharks acquired Alex Nedeljkovic in exchange for a 3rd-round pick. The profile of Nedeljkovic at the time of the trade is strikingly similar to that of Montembeault:

• Both are established NHL goaltenders.
• Both have demonstrated the ability to perform as a starting goalie.
• Both are on relatively affordable contracts.

However, several factors suggest that Samuel Montembeault could command a higher price, potentially a 2nd-round pick. Firstly, overall experience favours the Quebec native. With 231 NHL games under his belt, he possesses a more substantial resume than Nedeljkovic. Furthermore, prior to this current, more challenging season (where he currently posts a .872 save percentage), Montembeault maintained remarkable consistency with three consecutive seasons above the .900 mark.

Montembeault’s Strengths and Contract Appeal

Unlike Nedeljkovic, who alternated between backup and starter roles, Montembeault has proven he can handle the workload of a true number one in a demanding market like Montreal. His ability to perform under pressure and consistently deliver solid performances makes him an attractive option for teams seeking stability in net.

At $3.15 million for one more season, Montembeault’s contract is affordable for any team. His proven reliability behind a often young defensive brigade in Montreal makes him a reassuring option for any general manager looking for stability in goal and betting on a strong comeback for ‘Monty’.

The Canadiens’ Dilemma

The dilemma for the Canadiens is clear: is it better to keep Montembeault as a mentor for Fowler and Dobes, or capitalize on his value to accumulate further assets? If a 2nd-round pick is indeed on the table, it would be difficult for Kent Hughes to ignore. A strong showing in the remainder of the season could even increase his value.

One thing is certain: Montembeault has what it takes to regain his standing in the NHL, and if a trade were to occur, it won’t be a fire sale. He’s a proven NHL goaltender with a track record of success, and teams will recognize that.

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