Samuel Montembeault made history by stopping 48 shots in a shutout against the Toronto Maple Leafs on opening night in 2024–25. This game was a turning point for the Quebec native, who was once claimed on waivers. It marked the start of a remarkable year for him in the Montreal Canadiens crease.
Montembeault was born in Bécancour on October 30, 1996. He stands at 6-foot-3 and has become a key player in the NHL. Drafted 77th overall by the Florida Panthers in 2015, he worked his way up from Springfield and Syracuse to his NHL debut in 2019. Today, he is known for his impressive performances, steady stats, and affordable salary, making him a fan favorite in Canada.
This article explores his journey from his Florida roots to his rise in Montreal. It highlights why his success is important for the Montreal Canadiens. Readers will learn about his performance trends, key moments, and what’s next for him. It offers a clear view of his role, value, and the calm he brings to big games.
Overview of a Quebec Native NHL Goalie on the Rise
Samuel Montembeault, a Quebec native, has made a name for himself in hockey. He’s known for his quick hands and steady nerves. This career overview follows his journey from a promising young player to a reliable goalie for the Montreal Canadiens.
From Bécancour to Bell Centre
He started with the Trois-Rivières Estacades, winning QMAAA honours. Then, he honed his skills with the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada. In 2015, Florida picked him, and he worked on his game in the AHL.
By 2021, Montreal claimed him, and he quickly became a fan favourite. He turned pressure into rhythm, one hockey puck at a time.
Why his trajectory matters to the Montreal Canadiens
His growth fits the team’s smart roster build and value deals. This approach lets the skater core share the load. It helps the goalie grow without the pressure of carrying every game.
This also meets the expectations of the Bell Centre crowd. They look for honest work and calm saves, even when the game is tight.
Roundup format and what readers will learn
This section outlines his journey from junior to pro, highlighting key milestones. It also shares moments that showed his talent. Readers will get a quick summary of his career, his playing style, and his strengths.
It also touches on the buzz around him on nhl reddit. And why the humble hockey puck is a symbol of his steady rise.
Draft, Development, and Florida Panthers Roots
His journey from junior to pro was shaped by the Florida Panthers. A strong junior career built a solid foundation. This foundation helped him in his first AHL seasons and NHL games.
2015 NHL Draft: 77th overall by the Florida Panthers
He was picked 77th in the 2015 NHL Draft by the Florida Panthers. They saw him as a valuable addition, looking for depth behind Roberto Luongo. His skills in Quebec impressed scouts with his size, poise, and quick thinking.
QMJHL Armada years and early awards
With the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, he had a 2.40 GAA and a .907 save rate in his last season. He also won the 2016 CHL Goaltender of the Week award. Earlier, with the Trois-Rivières Estacades, he was named Best Goalie Prospect and a Second All-Star Team member.
In the 2016 playoffs, he played well with a 2.45 GAA and .925 SV% and one shutout. This showed his ability to stay calm under pressure. He signed a three-year contract in May 2016, a big step in his career.
AHL apprenticeship with Springfield and Syracuse
He made his debut with the Springfield Thunderbirds on October 13, 2017. He won 13 games in his first year, learning a lot. In 2018–19, he split time before making his NHL debut on March 2, 2019. He then played 13 games with the Syracuse Crunch in 2020–21.
His time in Springfield was a learning experience. He faced heavy minutes and worked on his skills. This experience helped him grow into a pro player.
Scouting reports on frame, calm, glove, and athleticism
Scouts praised his 6’3″ frame, quiet stance, and assertive glove. The Hockey News noted his athleticism and measured pace. These traits were what the Florida Panthers were looking for.
He added strength over time, reaching 6’3″, 218 lb. He kept a balanced stance. These qualities helped him handle tough workloads. They fit well with the Florida Panthers development path and prepared him for the NHL.
| Stage | Team/League | Key Dates | Notable Metrics | Takeaways |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Draft | Florida Panthers, NHL | 2015 NHL Draft, 77th overall | Projected starter profile | Size, composure, and glove drove the scouting report. |
| Junior Peak | Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, QMJHL | 2016–17 | 2.40 GAA, .907 SV%; 2016 CHL weekly honour | Playoff poise at 2.45 GAA, .925 SV% signalled readiness. |
| Pro Entry | Springfield Thunderbirds, AHL | Debut Oct. 13, 2017 | 13 wins in 41 GP; heavy-shot environment | Workload refined rebound control and tracking. |
| NHL Door Opens | Florida Panthers, NHL | Debut Mar. 2, 2019 | Overtime baptism vs. Carolina | Showed calm pace translation to NHL speed. |
| AHL Reset | Syracuse Crunch, AHL | 2020–21 | 13 GP, 8–4–1; 2.86 GAA, .898 SV% | Sturdy run reinforced depth role and readiness. |
Samuel Montembeault
Samuel Montembeault was born in Bécancour, Quebec. He moved from catching baseballs to becoming a calm NHL goalie. Fans call him “Sam” or “Monty.” His story is one of patience and poise.
He plays goal and catches left. His height and weight help him on the ice. He’s balanced and stays square on shots.
Montembeault played for the Florida Panthers and Montreal Canadiens. He also played for Team Canada. He has 206 NHL games under his belt, with five shutouts.
He started in the playoffs in 2025 with a .908 save rate. His journey is typical of modern goalies. He built trust through hard work.
He played in the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game and the CHL Canada/Russia Series. He was an AHL All-Star in 2019. Scouts loved his size, quiet feet, and glove.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthplace | Bécancour, Quebec, Canada |
| Position / Hand | Goaltender / catches left |
| Height and Weight | 6 ft 3 in (191 cm), 218 lb (99 kg) |
| NHL Clubs | Florida Panthers (2018–20); Montreal Canadiens (2021–present) |
| National Team | Canada |
| NHL Totals (through 2024–25) | 206 GP; 80–84–28; 3.21 GAA; .899 SV%; 5 SO |
| First NHL Playoffs (2025) | 3 GP; 0–2; 2.76 GAA; .908 SV% |
| Notable Honours | QMAAA Second All-Star (2013); Best Goalie Prospect (2013); CHL/NHL Top Prospects (2015); CHL Canada/Russia Series (2015); QMJHL Second All-Star (2017); AHL All-Star (2019) |
| Personal | Boston Red Sox fan; former baseball catcher; engaged to Daryanne Ayotte in Sept. 2024; married in Montreal in 2025 |
| Pronunciation | [mɔ̃tɑ̃bo] |
Samuel Montembeault’s journey from Bécancour to the NHL is inspiring. His size, control, and reading skills make him a top goalie. His glove is key as he catches left.
Becoming the Habs’ Backbone: Montreal Canadiens Era
Samuel Montembeault’s journey with the Montreal Canadiens started quietly. It grew steadily, turning an uncertain start into a trusted role. He earned respect in a demanding market.
Waiver claim to hometown staple
He was claimed on October 2, 2021, with little fanfare but clear intent. The preseason showed his poise behind shaky defending. His calm reads won over Bell Centre crowds.
Media from The Athletic, Sportsnet, and the Montreal Gazette highlighted his first month. It set the tone for a hometown staple.
Stepping in during Carey Price and Jake Allen absences
With Carey Price on leave, Montembeault backed up Jake Allen. Then, he carried starts when Allen got hurt. He managed heavy workloads and kept rebound control tight.
His reliability deepened trust inside the room.
Record-setting moments and Molson Cup runner-up finishes
He became the first Canadiens goalie to post 48-plus saves in back-to-back games. He recorded his first NHL shutout against Buffalo. Improved form led to Molson Cup runner-up honours in 2022–23 and again in 2024–25.
Each milestone reinforced his staying power in the Montreal Canadiens era.
Three-year extension and establishing starter credentials
He signed a three-year extension on December 1, 2023. This rewarded steady gains and strong advanced metrics. He set a career high with 41 games in 2023–24.
He split starts efficiently before taking on more in 2024–25. The contract aligned with his growth from waiver claim to credible starter. Consistency is now the benchmark.
Breakout Performances, Highlights, and Playoff Debut
Samuel Montembeault had a standout season in Canada. He made a big impact with a record night against the Maple Leafs and a strong playoff debut. He showed great skill and composure under pressure.
Season-opening 48-save shutout vs. Maple Leafs
On Oct. 9, 2024, Montembeault made 48 saves against the Maple Leafs. This set a new NHL record for most saves in a season opener. He played with calm and confidence, tracking the puck well.
This game was a highlight of the year. Fans remember it for Montembeault’s skill and composure in Montreal’s crease.
Career-best wins and guiding a playoff return
By Jan. 21, 2025, Montembeault had 17 wins, a new personal best. He finished the season with 31 wins, 24 losses, 7 ties, and 4 shutouts. His play helped Montreal return to the playoffs after four years.
His late-season games were intense. He made key saves to keep Montreal in the game. These moments were key to the season’s success.
First NHL playoff start and injury storyline with Jakub Dobeš
Montembeault made his playoff debut on April 21, 2025. He saved 29 shots in a 3–2 overtime loss to the Washington Capitals. In Game 3, he left with a groin injury, and rookie Jakub Dobeš took over.
Dobeš helped Montreal win 6–3, while Capitals goalie Logan Thompson also left the game. Montembeault’s injury was later confirmed as a torn groin muscle, forcing him to miss the rest of the series.
Top highlights fans share on NHL Reddit
Fans on NHL Reddit shared clips of his 48-save shutout and other impressive plays. They praised his calm and quick reflexes. His ability to stop rebounds was highlighted.
These fan-shared moments kept Montembeault’s achievements in the spotlight. From the Maple Leafs game to his playoff debut, every save was important.
International Gold and 4 Nations Face-Off
Team Canada first called him up as the third goalie at the 2016 World Juniors. He didn’t play in a game but it was a big step for him. It showed he was on the radar of the national team staff.
In 2023, he got his chance at the IIHF World Championship after Montreal’s season ended. He played in seven games, with a 1.42 goals-against average and a .939 save percentage. He even got a shutout against Latvia. These stats helped Team Canada win gold and proved he’s ready for big moments.
December 2024 was another milestone: he was picked for the NHL’s 4 Nations Face-Off with Team Canada. He was the third goalie, but he was always ready. On February 20, 2025, Team Canada won the trophy after beating the United States in overtime.
Media like the Montreal Canadiens, Sportsnet, The Hockey News, and the Montreal Gazette praised his calm and skill. They noted his better rebound control and ability to read the game. These skills are valuable both at home and on the world stage.
| Tournament | Role | Games Started | GAA | SV% | Notable Moment | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 World Juniors (Team Canada) | Third Goalie | 0 | — | — | Development call-up; no game action | Quarterfinal exit |
| 2023 IIHF World Championship | Starter | 7 | 1.42 | .939 | Shutout vs. Latvia; all knockout starts | IIHF World Championship gold |
| 2025 4 Nations Face-Off | Third Goalie with Jordan Binnington, Adin Hill | 0 | — | — | Prepared role; overtime win vs. USA | Champion |
Advanced Stats, Trends, and Salary Context
Montreal’s goalie has become a key player, not just a backup. As he played more, the team trusted him more. This is important in a league that values stats and has a tight salary cap.
Why his underlying numbers turned heads
In 2022–23, he did better than expected in stopping goals. The Athletic said his calm and quick reads impressed scouts. He kept up his good form in 2023–24 and 2024–25, showing he’s reliable.
His stats matched what coaches look for: smart routes, fewer chances for the other team, and better puck control. These numbers were consistent over time, not just for a few games.
Team-building edge: value contracts and a rising cap
La Presse and The Athletic said Montreal’s deep roster helps control chaos. A good goalie contract means more money for other players. This balance helps the team make smart choices.
Having a good goalie contract helps with budgeting and making trades. It keeps the team’s spending in check without losing ambition.
Where his salary fits among NHL goalies
He went from a two-year, $2 million deal to a three-year, $9.45 million contract in 2023. His salary is lower than many top goalies, but his work and results are similar to mid-tier ones. This shows he’s a good value in today’s market.
This difference in pay and performance helps the team spend on defence and scoring. It keeps them under the salary cap.
How Montreal’s skater core helps reduce goalie burden
Cole Caufield’s scoring and Lane Hutson’s arrival have helped Montreal. They get more puck possession and make cleaner exits. This makes it easier for the goalie.
With better structure, the goalie’s role changes. He focuses on making the first stop and starting plays. This teamwork helps the team’s success and keeps the goalie’s salary in check as the team grows.
Gear, Culture, and Fan Connections in Montreal
In Montreal, hockey and everyday life blend together. A hockey puck might sit next to a paddle. The Bell Centre’s glow spreads to streets filled with jerseys and lively chatter. It’s a welcoming mix.
Hockey puck to paddle: off-ice interests and Rocket Padel buzz
Montreal’s paddle scene is booming. It attracts athletes who love quick moves and sharp reflexes. At Rocket Padel, drills turn into fun cross-training, mirroring hockey’s fast pace.
These workouts are popular among fans. They show how athletes improve their agility and balance. The excitement comes from the challenge and the chance to compete.
Local flavour: Mclean’s Pub, Canadiens fan shop, and community
Game nights bring fans to Mclean’s Pub. There, they discuss everything from lineups to goaltending. A short walk away, the Montreal Canadiens fan shop offers new and retro gear, signed items, and more.
The city’s energy brings together families, students, and long-time fans. It makes the rink feel like a community spot, even in downtown.
Media notes: Brendan Kelly, Montreal Gazette coverage
The Montreal Gazette covers the goalie’s journey from depth player to reliable goalie. Brendan Kelly’s columns, along with Stu Cowan and Pat Hickey’s work, tell the stories that matter to fans.
Their reporting mixes stats, tone, and context. It gives fans a feel for the goalie’s performance and poise. It keeps the city’s voice at the forefront.
Typo traffic and brand capture: “Montreal Canadies,” “doby,” “Hurricanes Bloor”
Digital chatter includes misspellings like Montreal Canadies. “Doby” is a quick way to talk about Jakub Dobeš in goalie discussions.
Phrases like Hurricanes Bloor appear in cross-team conversations. They draw interest to local stories, highlights, and gear searches.
| Touchpoint | What Fans Do | Why It Resonates | Keyword Signals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rocket Padel sessions | Follow off-ice clips and drills | Agility and reflex gains tied to game nights | Rocket Padel, paddle |
| Mclean’s Pub gatherings | Debate saves, lines, and matchups | Community vibe before and after puck drop | Mclean’s Pub, hockey puck |
| Montreal Canadiens fan shop | Pick up jerseys, retro gear, and signed items | Tangible link to rink energy and heroes | Montreal Canadiens fan shop |
| Gazette coverage | Read analysis and features | Context that blends stats with city voice | Brendan Kelly Montreal Gazette |
| Search and forum slang | Use typos and nicknames in threads | Affinity built through shared in-jokes | Montreal Canadies, doby, Hurricanes Bloor |
What’s Next for the Goalie Crease in Montreal
Montreal starts the season with a strong goalie lineup. They aim to balance playing time and keep everyone sharp. The goal is to make every game count and keep the team consistent.
Competition and support: Jake Allen, Cayden Primeau, Jakub Dobeš
Having three goalies helps the team stay balanced. Jake Allen brings experience and guidance. Cayden Primeau is known for his calm and skill in big games.
Jakub Dobeš is the new face, ready to step in when needed. This setup ensures everyone works hard to earn their spot. It keeps the team sharp and allows for flexibility in game strategy.
Development lessons from the Panthers years
His time in the AHL taught him patience and quick thinking. He learned to adapt during long trips and to focus on small details. Working with top goalies showed him how to extend his season.
He’s learned to be flexible under different coaches. These lessons help him stay focused and ready for any game situation. His daily routine is now more efficient, helping him handle busy schedules.
Ceiling, consistency, and health after groin injury
He’s recovering from a groin injury and focusing on getting back to full strength. His goal is to stay healthy and consistent, not just in games but in practice too. This approach aims to prevent future injuries.
His plan is to maintain a high level of play without overdoing it. Shorter practices and careful recovery times will help him stay sharp throughout the season.
2025–26 outlook: starts, stats, and team trajectory
Looking ahead, he’s set for a strong season with 31 wins and 62 starts. If he stays healthy, he’s expected to keep up with the league’s top save rates. Montreal’s improving team and financial situation support his goals.
His role is clear: Jake Allen leads, Cayden Primeau pushes for more, and Jakub Dobeš provides backup. With balanced playing time and ongoing development, the goalie crease is ready for success.
Conclusion
The story of Samuel Montembeault is one of steady growth and focus. He went from Bécancour to being drafted by Florida. Then, he worked hard in the AHL and was claimed on waivers. Now, he’s a key player at the Bell Centre.
His skills in the crease are impressive. He has made big saves and played well in games. His stats show his success, like a record 48-save shutout against Toronto.
He also won gold at the 2023 Worlds and the 4 Nations Face-Off in 2025. For more on his recent achievements, check out this Montreal Gazette coverage.
Montembeault’s contract is smart for the Canadiens’ future. It lets the team spend on other players as the cap goes up. A strong blue line also helps him out in tough games.
After a 2025 groin injury, his health will be watched closely. He’ll face competition from Jake Allen, Cayden Primeau, and Jakub Dobeš. But his career is on the rise.
In summary, Montembeault’s career is going up. His achievements and stats show his growth. He’s ready for the Canadiens’ future, aiming for more success each season.