Canadiens Consider Starting Jakub Dobes in Goal Against Maple Leafs and Potential Call-Up of Jacob Fowler from Laval Rocket
The decision to start Jakub Dobes in goal against the Maple Leafs on Saturday and potentially play him back-to-back games is being considered by the Canadiens. With Samuel Montembeault struggling, the team might need to call up Jacob Fowler from the AHL's Laval Rocket. Dobes has been performing well with a 9-3-2 record, while Montembeault has a 5-6-1 record. Fowler's strong AHL performance could make him a viable option for the NHL if the current goalies continue to struggle.
The Canadiens are in a good position in the Atlantic Division standings, holding a playoff spot. Dobes' performance against the Leafs could determine if he plays back-to-back games. Fowler's potential call-up might be accelerated if the current goalies can't provide consistent goaltending. Fowler's AHL stats are impressive, making him a candidate for an NHL opportunity to test his readiness.
Montembeault and Dobes' performances this season will influence GM Kent Hughes' decision on who to trade to make room for Fowler. Montembeault has a higher salary and is older, making him a likely trade candidate. The Canadiens might make a trade before the Christmas break, but the team's current position allows them to assess the need for a trade closer to the holiday roster freeze.
The defensive pairings set up by head coach Martin St. Louis seem to be working well, with Matheson and Dobson matched against top lines. The absence of Kaiden Guhle due to injury has led to consistent pairings, which are likely to remain until Guhle's return. Juraj Slafkovsky's potential as a penalty-killer is noted, but his current role on the top line and power-play unit limits his ice time for penalty-killing duties.
The Canadiens' efforts to mend relationships with former players, including Homecoming Nights for players like P.K. Subban and Andrei Markov, have been well-received. A Homecoming Night for Max Pacioretty, who left on bad terms, could be a positive gesture. Shootout goals are not counted in player stats, but they are crucial for securing wins. Improving faceoff performance, especially on the penalty-kill, could reduce opportunities for opponents. Brendan Gallagher's offensive struggles and turnover numbers are noted, but faceoffs are not a major concern for the team.