While much of the attention in Montreal has focused on the high-profile moves of GM Kent Hughes and the energetic leadership of head coach Martin St-Louis, an essential figure has quietly been shaping the Canadiens’ resurgence from behind the scenes.

Éric Raymond, the team’s goaltending coach since 2021, has played a pivotal yet often overlooked role in the development of the club’s netminders, particularly Samuel Montembeault.

As the Canadiens continue their patient rebuild, Raymond’s steady hand and unique approach have become a cornerstone of the organization’s progress.

His work goes beyond technical drills, emphasizing trust, mental resilience, and tailored development for each goaltender under his guidance.

With a reputation for meticulous preparation and understated leadership, Raymond has helped transform the Canadiens’ goaltending from an area of concern into a position of strength.

As Montreal eyes a return to contention, it is becoming increasingly clear that the team’s revival owes much to the quiet excellence of its goaltending coach.

Montreal Canadiens GM Kent Hughes and head coach Martin St-Louis

Photo credit: RDS

Behind the spotlight, one man is playing a key role in the revival of the Montreal Canadiens’ goaltending: Éric Raymond.

Serving as the goaltending coach since 2021, Raymond is increasingly recognized as one of the organization’s quiet pillars.

His meticulous and patient work with Samuel Montembeault was highlighted this week by analyst and former NHL executive Pierre McGuire, who didn’t hesitate to call his impact significant.

Raymond arrived in Montreal at the same time Martin St-Louis began his own transition to head coach. He was entrusted with a colossal task: to restore confidence in a young Quebec-born goalie still searching for stability.

Three years later, the results speak for themselves. Samuel Montembeault is establishing himself as the Canadiens’ number-one goalie and a credible option for Team Canada ahead of the next Winter Olympic Games.

Take a peek into the world of goalie coaching with Eric Raymond

Before being hired in Montreal, Raymond held similar roles in the QMJHL, notably with the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, where he had already demonstrated his ability to guide young goaltenders and maximize their potential.

His approach is based on trust, detailed video analysis, and above all, a deep understanding of the mental side of the position-often considered one of the most demanding roles in professional sports.

An Immeasurable Impact Since His Hiring

Since joining the Canadiens’ staff, Raymond hasn’t only worked with Montembeault. He’s also coached Jake Allen and Cayden Primeau, tailoring his methods to each goalie’s reality and needs.

Canadiens Are Most Improved Team in the Atlantic Division & Samuel Montembeault Season Preview

Also, mapping out a Stanley Cup parade for the Canadiens and Maple Leafs.

But it’s with Montembeault that the progress has been most spectacular. The 27-year-old netminder has gone from being a waiver claim to becoming a cornerstone of the Canadiens’ rebuilding plan.

Eric Raymond worked alongside Benoit Allaire with the Rangers, the goalkeepers’ coach for Henrik Lundqvist

Behind the scenes, several players and members of the organization point to Raymond’s calm yet consistent influence in the locker room. He speaks little to the media, avoids the spotlight, but earns respect through his seriousness and total dedication to his goaltenders.