Samuel Montembeault and Martin St-Louis now face a crowded crease after trade interest in the Canadiens goalie reportedly dried up.
Vincent Duquette reports that interest in Montembeault is nonexistent, leaving Montreal without the clean summer exit many expected.
That changes the pressure around Kent Hughes. He can't move a 29-year-old goalie for a weak return simply to clear space, but keeping all three creates another problem.
Jakub Dobes has reportedly secured the No. 1 job after strong performances, while Jacob Fowler continues to be viewed as Montreal's goalie of the future.
That leaves Montembeault in the third spot after entering the recent past as St-Louis' trusted starter. It's a sharp change in role and leverage.
The market has also narrowed. Edmonton and Florida, 2 clubs previously linked to Montembeault, have already added goalies elsewhere.
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Kent Hughes just found himself facing a brutal Samuel Montembeault decision
Every destination that disappears weakens Montreal's position. Interested teams know the Canadiens want to avoid carrying 3 goalies, which makes it harder for Hughes to demand full value.
Waivers would be the harshest route. Montreal could lose Montembeault without receiving the type of return management would expect for an experienced NHL goalie.
Keeping him isn't clean either. A 3-goalie rotation creates limited practice work, uncertain starts and constant pressure around every lineup decision.
Montembeault also has to manage the personal side of the situation. He went from holding the crease to watching Dobes move ahead while Fowler's development shapes the club's long-term plans.
For St-Louis, the challenge is maintaining clear roles. Goalies need rhythm, and splitting the net 3 ways can leave everyone waiting without giving anyone enough starts to settle in.
Hughes may now have to stay patient into training camp. An injury elsewhere, a poor preseason or another club's goaltending concern could reopen the market.
Until then, Montreal's options remain uncomfortable. Trade Montembeault below his value, risk waivers, or carry a crowded crease into the season and hope the situation doesn't spill into the locker room.
Should the Canadiens keep Samuel Montembeault instead of accepting a weak return?
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