The Montreal Canadiens finally decided on the future in the crease on Friday morning, signing Samuel Montembeault to a three-year extension with a $3.15M Average Annual Value. As reported by Tony Marinaro of The Sick Podcast.
The #Habs have agreed to a 3-year contract extension with goaltender Samuel Montembeault for 3 years for $3.15 million a year.#GoHabsGo #thesickpodcast pic.twitter.com/wr7nhRBmQE
— The Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro (@thesickpodcasts) December 1, 2023
With Cayden Primeau yet to impress, and Allen struggling to keep the rubber away from the mesh, Montembeault’s presence has become essential. He has been steady when called upon, and it just feels different watching him play this season. The Quebec native looks more intense and laser-focused, which has shown on the ice.
The team was reluctant to decide on just two goaltenders because it was unclear what one and two would look like. Hughes was convinced, and up to this point, still is certain that Primeau will be claimed if the club waives him. Allen seems to get the nod ahead of Primeau because of his veteran presence, oh, and his Stanley Cup ring.
Either way, the Habs will see as much Montembeault in the net as they wish. The backup position can be ironed out now, please Kent, trade or waive a goalie. Monty is our guy, and the next three years will be interesting to watch unfold. One thing has been confirmed, however, Hughes believes number 35 is the guy.
With injuries, line shakeups, and lacklustre goaltending from Allen and Primeau, Montembeault has been a steady presence. Locked in, and so calm and focused, you have to think he has studied Carey Price a little. Positionally he is very sound, and he loves to flash the leather, much to the excitement of the Habs crowd, who were spoiled with #31 for many years.
There wasn’t a passing of the torch from Price to Montembeault, but this extension speaks louder than words. Montreal means business, and they need a starter, with a contract in hand, who will lead them through the rebuild. He fits the bill – age, athleticism and steel nerves – the Bell Centre will be watching closely, Sam, and you’re all right. In Kent we trust, and 35 has proven worthy of this deal.
A very smart pass by Samuel Montembeault to create this Joel Armia scoring chance.
— Marc Dumont (@MarcPDumont) November 30, 2023
Merzlikins tries to slash Armia but hits his own defenceman 😅 pic.twitter.com/Qb76aJenGP
With an underrated puck-handling ability, Montembeault has some similar traits to Price. The most important will be to block out the noise and ignore social media. He knows the city and the importance of the role, so he is close to home cooking. He has shown that he can keep the puck out of the net, and thrives off the Bell Centre energy.
Montembeault has secured the bag, and will now anchor the ship.