The Montreal Canadiens have put themselves in a strong spot with the NHL season moving toward its final stretch. Their progress has come from better scoring and improved results across the lineup.
Even with that progress, one major decision still needs clarity before the playoffs begin. That brings the focus to the situation in the goal and how the team may approach it.
Georges Laraque Weighs In on Canadiens’ Playoff Goaltending
The Montreal Canadiens have used multiple goaltenders this season, but the current discussion centers on Jakub Dobes and Jacob Fowler as they compete for the starting role.
Both players have received chances in important games, and the coaching staff has continued to alternate between them to assess performance. With the playoffs getting closer, the decision for Game 1 remains open.
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Dobes (22-8-4) has handled more starts this season and has delivered results that have kept the team in a good position. He built an early run that helped Montreal stay in the race and has continued to contribute as the schedule progressed.
While his numbers have varied, his experience at the NHL level gives him an advantage in overall usage. Fowler has made a strong case since his recall from the Laval Rocket on March 11. He earned that chance after a productive run in the AHL, where he posted a 19-7-2 record with a 2.23 goals-against average and a .916 save percentage.
Since joining Montreal, Fowler has been trusted in key matchups, including games against division opponent Ottawa, and has shown he can handle those situations.
Former Canadiens forward Georges Laraque shared his view on the situation while speaking to NHL insider Jason Gregor. He said, “Today I would Dobes would start game one of the playoffs, but he and Fowler are battling and it could change down the stretch. It is strange to see Montembeault not even in the conversation. He likely gets traded in the summer.”
Laraque’s comments point to Dobes as the current choice while also noting that the situation can still change.
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Sam Montembeault, who began the season as the main option, has moved into a reduced role after a difficult stretch. His numbers dropped with a 10-8-4 record and a 3.43 goals-against average, and that opened the door for the younger goalies to take on more responsibility. As a result, the team now leans on a two-goalie setup with Dobes and Fowler.
The Canadiens have built a competitive group with strong scoring from Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki, but their defensive numbers still need attention. That makes the decision in goal more important as the team prepares for the playoffs and looks to enter with a clear plan.
