As the Montreal Canadiens search for a solution to their backup goaltender problem, general manager Kent Hughes has finally given Jakub Dobes a chance to prove he is the answer. Dobes is on track to make his NHL debut this weekend in Florida, and fans are eager to see what the young goaltender can bring to the team.
Dobes has been impressive this season with the Laval Rocket, posting a 9-3-1 record alongside a 2.44 goals-against average and a .910 save percentage. Drafted in the fifth round in 2020, Dobes also put up solid numbers during his collegiate career at Ohio State University before joining Laval. His strong performances in the AHL have only heightened anticipation for his arrival in the NHL.
The writing was on the wall. All the signs were there, yet I'm still shocked they called up Dobes. I thought they'd want to keep him down there longer and maybe shop around for a temporary stop gap. I'm thrilled, nonetheless. Can't wait to see what he can do. https://t.co/tD3S1xpKYE
— Mike Veenie (@fnveenie) December 27, 2024
A change was clearly needed at the backup goalie position for the Canadiens’ upcoming trip to Florida. Sam Montembeault has shouldered a heavy workload, starting the past 10 games, including a demanding back-to-back against the Detroit Red Wings. Meanwhile, Cayden Primeau appears to have fallen out of favour with the coaching staff, leaving the door open for Dobes to make his debut and provide Montembeault with some much-needed rest.
What's next for Cayden Primeau?
Primeau's time in Montreal appears to be coming to an end. He has struggled mightily this season and ultimately lost the coaching staff's confidence. One potential course of action for the Canadiens is to place him on waivers once the roster freeze is lifted tomorrow. Alternatively, they may keep him on the roster while exploring the trade market for a veteran goaltender. Much of this decision will hinge on Dobes’ performance during his first NHL stint.
If Primeau does hit the waiver wire, it will be interesting to see whether another team claims him, either for an NHL or AHL role. However, his underwhelming stats may deter potential suitors. The most likely scenario appears to be a return to Laval, where he could work on regaining his form. Any future call-up to the NHL will likely depend on how well Dobes performs with the Canadiens.
The final evidence that Canadiens have lost confidence in Cayden Primeau #Habs #HabsIO https://t.co/kKAh5MvljE
— Stu Cowan (@StuCowan1) December 27, 2024
The Canadiens are set to face the Florida Panthers on Saturday and the Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday. It’s expected that Dobes will make his long-awaited NHL debut in one of these games. Whether he can seize this opportunity and establish himself as a reliable backup remains to be seen, but his journey to the NHL has certainly captured the attention of fans and analysts alike.
Dobes’ performance this weekend could provide the Canadiens with much-needed clarity in their goaltending situation and potentially pave the way for a brighter future between the pipes.