The Bell Centre is buzzing with anticipation as fans gather for another high-stakes showdown in Montreal, but tonight’s game comes with a twist that has everyone talking. With two talented goaltenders vying for the spotlight, the question on everyone’s mind is simple: who will get the nod between the pipes? The answer, as revealed just moments before puck drop, is sure to spark heated debates and passionate reactions across the city.

Jakub Dobes has been turning heads with his remarkable performances, earning praise for his poise and making crucial saves when it matters most. His recent heroics have left supporters wondering if the Canadiens are witnessing the rise of a new star. Meanwhile, Samuel Montembeault, the seasoned netminder, faces mounting pressure to prove himself as the team’s reliable backbone, especially in front of a packed Saturday night crowd.

As the tension builds and speculation swirls, Montreal’s coaching staff is faced with a decision that could shape the trajectory of the season. Will they stick with experience, or ride the hot hand of youth? The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the outcome may have lasting implications for both players. Dive into the full story to discover which path the Canadiens have chosen—and why.

Jan 6, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens goalie Sam Montembeault (35) and goalie Jakub Dobes (75) during the warmup period before the game against the Vancouver Canucks at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

I was really looking forward to seeing what Martin St-Louis and the Montreal Canadiens were going to do with the young goaltender Jakub Dobes

Right now, he’s clearly on fire! He also earned himself the game winning glasses after making several key saves against the Predators.

He was unbeatable during training camp and the preseason games, and he’s clearly had a better start to the season than Samuel Montembeault, so we were eager to see if he would be sent back into action tonight.

That’s what some people believed or were hoping for.

Well, we have our answer!

Confirmed: Jakub Dobes returns to the bench despite his brilliance, and Samuel Montembeault will be in goal for the Montreal Canadiens tonight

There you go! Martin St-Louis has made his choice:

“Samuel Montembeault vs New York Rangers.”

Personally, I don’t necessarily dislike the decision to go back to your number-one goalie, especially on a Saturday night at the Bell Centre, but this will still be an important game for Samuel’s confidence.

If he happens to have another rough outing tonight against the Rangers, it’s clear that some armchair GMs will start raising questions.

Samuel Montembeault, 28 years old, currently has a 2-1-0 record this season, with a goals-against average of 2.97 and a save percentage of .870.

Jakub Dobes, 24 years old, currently has a 2-0-0 record this season, with a goals-against average of 1.46 and a save percentage of .940.

More details to come.

Enjoy the game!