Where the Sam Montembeault–to–Oilers Rumor Really Started

A goalie with an .858 save percentage shouldn’t be a trade target for a desperate team… and yet there was chatter this weekend about the possibility the Montreal Canadiens might consider dealing goaltender Sam Montembeault and that the Edmonton Oilers should be ready with an offer.

The latest spark came from David Pagnotta, who floated the idea that if Montreal’s goaltending picture shifts — specifically if Jacob Fowler keeps playing well and Jakub Dobes keeps progressing. That could leave the struggling Sam Montembeault on the outside, and the Canadiens might listen to trade offers. And if that door cracks open? Pagnotta wonders whether the Edmonton Oilers would take a serious look.

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It’s fair to question the fit. Montembeault has struggled this season, posting an 8.58 save percentage through 11 appearances with a string of rough outings: .870 vs. Boston, a brutal .667 vs. Dallas, and .840 against the Los Angeles Kings. The Canadiens have given him some additional starts, which raises the question everyone’s thinking: are they trying to stabilize their crease… or showcase him?

Have the Canadiens Lost Faith in Montembeault?

Earlier this year, the conversation in Montreal shifted toward Dobes potentially claiming the starter’s net. He was winning, Montembeault wasn’t, and fans were ready to flip the depth chart. Then Dobes’ emotional postgame interview after New Jersey reminded everyone he’s still a young, developing goalie who’s going to take some lumps. Montreal doesn’t want to break the kid by force-feeding him NHL workloads.

So that brings us back to the rumor. Perhaps the Canadiens don’t believe Montembeault is their future, but they’re hesitant to move him until Dobes finds his game again. If Montembeault stays at or below league-average territory, the Canadiens could — could — entertain calls. Meanwhile, Edmonton’s need is obvious. Clavin Pickard is arguably unplayable right now, and while Stuart Skinner has been better of late, there is chatter that the team can’t risk another season drifting away with him as the starter.

Is Montembeault the savior Oilers fans want? Probably not. And, is there anything to this trade talk? Also, probably no. But the logic behind the rumor isn’t totally unfounded. Things get really interesting if Fowler — who is off to an outstanding start with Laval — keeps playing like a guy trying to force a call-up sooner than later.

Next: Canadiens Center Situation Worsens Following Dach Injury Update