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Canadiens face trade decisions with Sam Montembeault this offseason

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 23, 2026, 7:35 PM

Last updated Jul 23, 2026

Canadiens face trade decisions with Sam Montembeault this offseason

Summary

Montreal Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes is focused on improving the team while maintaining flexibility after reaching the Eastern Conference Final in 2025-26. Goaltender Sam Montembeault, entering the final year of a three-year, $9.45 million contract, faces trade speculation due to competition with Jakub Dobeš and Jacob Fowler. Montembeault had a tough season, prompting Dobeš's rise to the starting role. Insider Stu Cowan emphasizes that the Canadiens are unlikely to trade Montembeault without a fair return, as he could rebuild his value with a strong start to the upcoming season. If no suitable trade arises, Montreal might begin the season with Montembeault and Dobeš in the NHL.

Source Links

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Market Watch

•Sam Montembeault is in the final year of his contract.
•Montreal has a three-goalie competition for NHL spots.
•Jakub Dobeš gained a starting role during the 2025-26 season.
•Stu Cowan notes Canadiens won't trade Montembeault for a weak return.
•Dobeš is likely the starting goalie if Montembeault remains.

Latest Updates

7:35 PMYahoo Sports — ‘They’re Not Gonna Give Guys Away’ — Canadiens Insider Clarifies $9.45 Million Trade Chip’s Future

What they're saying

"
After reaching the Eastern Conference Final in 2025-26, Montreal Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes entered the offseason with a clear goal: improve the roster while maintaining the team’s long-term flexibility. That has created an interesting situation in the crease.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Montreal Canadiens NHL Hockey