Montreal Canadiens Sign Goaltender Samuel Montembeault to Three-Year Extension

The Montreal Canadiens have secured goaltender Samuel Montembeault with a three-year contract extension valued at $9.45 million, averaging $3.15 million annually. This agreement, announced on December 1, 2023, comes as Montembeault approaches the end of his current contract and would have been eligible for unrestricted free agency in July 2024.

Montembeault’s Performance and Impact

At 27, Montembeault has demonstrated consistent growth since joining the Canadiens in October 2021. In the 2023-2024 season, he achieved a 16-15-9 record over 41 games, marking a personal best in wins. His performance included a shutout and a .903 save percentage. Notably, in the season opener against the Toronto Maple Leafs, Montembeault set an NHL record with 48 saves in a shutout victory.

International Achievements

Montembeault’s excellence extends beyond the NHL. In May 2023, he was instrumental in Canada’s gold medal win at the IIHF World Championship, posting a 1.42 goals-against average and a .939 save percentage across seven games.

Team Dynamics and Future Outlook

The Canadiens currently maintain three goaltenders under contract: Montembeault, veteran Jake Allen, and Cayden Primeau. Allen, 33, has a cap hit of $3.85 million, while Primeau, 24, is signed at $890,000. The team faces decisions regarding their goaltending lineup, especially considering all three require waivers to be assigned to the AHL.

Montembeault’s Commitment to Montreal

Expressing his enthusiasm for the extension, Montembeault stated, “I just love it here.” He acknowledged the stability the contract provides and emphasized his commitment to proving his value to the team.

With Montembeault’s continued presence, the Canadiens aim to build on their recent progress, fostering a competitive edge in the upcoming seasons.