Montreal Canadiens

Jakub Dobes Shines in Canadiens Debut with a Shutout Victory

The Montreal Canadiens Jakub Dobes made his debut today with a 4-0 shutout against the Florida Panthers. Is he the real deal?

by
Old Prof
December 29, 2024

Jakub Dobes made a stunning NHL debut Saturday, backstopping the Montreal Canadiens to a 4-0 win over the Florida Panthers. The 23-year-old Czech goaltender, called up from the AHL’s Laval Rocket just yesterday, turned aside all 34 shots he faced. Dobes’ performance made history. The question fans have is whether his play was a one-off or if he’s the real deal.

Canadiens Outwork Panthers for Win

In a game where the Florida Panthers, the defending Stanley Cup champions, generated plenty of offensive opportunities, the Canadiens managed to capitalize on key moments. Kirby Dach had a standout night with his first two-goal game in nearly two years. Cole Caufield and Jake Evans also scored. Alex Newhook added two assists, surprisingly showing Montreal’s depth.

The Canadiens didn’t dominate possession, being out-chanced 25-11, but their opportunistic scoring and Dobes’ great play in the crease proved to be the difference. Although no one knew it at the time, Jake Evans’ short-handed goal late in the second period sealed the game, and the Canadiens’ disciplined defense limited Florida’s chances in the third period.

On the flip side, Florida struggled. It was the Stanley Cup champion’s second straight game without a goal. Spencer Knight stopped 21 shots for the Panthers, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Montreal’s balanced attack and Dobes’ surprising play.

Jakub Dobes Shines in His Dream Debut

Dobes was extraordinary. Despite the Panthers’ 34-shot barrage, he made saves with the composure of a seasoned NHL goalie. His performance wasn’t just a memorable moment for Montreal fans—it was historic.

Dobes became the first goalie in NHL history to record a shutout against the defending Stanley Cup champions in his debut since Daren Puppa achieved the feat in 1985. Additionally, he’s the first Canadiens goaltender to earn a shutout in his NHL debut since Yann Danis did it in 2005.

The young goalie’s path to the NHL has been steady. With Laval this season, Dobes posted a solid 9-3-1 record, a 2.44 goals-against average, and a .910 save percentage. His AHL experience prepared him for the big stage. He displayed solid positioning, quick reflexes, and calmness under pressure against one of the league’s top teams.

What Is the Road Ahead for Dobes?

With Cayden Primeau placed on waivers, Dobes appears set to become the backup to Sam Montembeault for now. Montembeault is expected to start in Sunday’s game against Tampa Bay, but could Dobes’ solid play spark a goaltending competition?

As the Canadiens work through their rebuilding stage, Dobes’ emergence offers hope for a bright future between the pipes. His ability to step up against elite competition bodes well for Montreal’s long-term plans, particularly with a packed schedule that demands a reliable second option in goal.

The Bottom Line for Dobes: Is He a Star in the Making?

Dobes’ NHL debut was a personal success as well as a morale boost for a Canadiens team looking for some wins. Yes, it’s too early to predict his long-term impact. However, his performance suggests he could be a valuable asset for Montreal moving forward.

As the Canadiens head to Tampa Bay for the second game of a back-to-back, the question remains: How will Dobes follow up this incredible start? Regardless of what’s next, Saturday’s shutout marks the beginning of what could be a promising NHL career.