Montreal's management has been quietly reviewing its goaltending corps as the 2026 offseason approaches, with the team carrying three netminders on its roster.
The Edmonton Oilers, still searching for a reliable starter after a volatile season, have been linked to a potential acquisition that could reshape their net.
Potential Trade Dynamics
Hockey 24/7 analyst Frank Seravalli placed Samuel Montembeault at No. 11 on his trade board, signaling that the Canadiens are at least exploring options.
Montembeault, who carries a $3.15 million cap hit, posted a .872 save percentage and a 3.43 goals‑against average over 25 appearances last season, numbers that fall short of the team's expectations.
With Jakub Dobes and Jacob Fowler projected ahead of him on the depth chart, the Canadiens may decide that moving the veteran could free up cap space and development minutes.
For the Oilers, the move would represent a risk, but the front office believes Montembeault could outperform both Connor Ingram, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent, and Tristan Jarry, should the price be right.
If the deal materializes, it would mark a significant shift in both clubs' roster construction and could influence the broader market for mid‑tier goaltenders heading into the next cycle.