As the Montreal Canadiens gear up for another pivotal season, all eyes are on the team’s goaltending situation—a position that’s often been the backbone of Montreal’s hockey legacy.

While Samuel Montembeault seems to have locked down the coveted number one spot, the real intrigue lies just behind him, where a fierce competition is set to unfold for the backup role.

With names like Jakub Dobes and Kaapo Kahkonen in the mix, most experts predict a showdown between these two rising talents. However, a surprising third contender has caught the attention of none other than legendary former Canadiens netminder José Théodore.

In recent interviews, Théodore has dropped hints about a young goalie whose presence and mentality have left a lasting impression on him, suggesting that the battle for the backup position might not be as straightforward as it seems. This promising prospect brings more than just skill to the ice—he possesses a mindset that could set him apart from the rest.

As training camp approaches, fans and analysts alike are left wondering: Could this under-the-radar candidate be the next breakout star for Montreal? Discover what makes this goalie so intriguing, and why Théodore believes he could make waves in the Canadiens’ crease sooner than anyone expects.

Photo of Jose Theodore and Canadiens GM Kent Hughes

Photo credit: NHL

If Samuel Montembeault’s spot as the Montreal Canadiens’ number one goaltender is secure, it’s a completely different story for his backup.

At the team’s next training camp, there will be a real battle between Jakub Dobes, Kaapo Kahkonen, and of course Jacob Fowler.

Logic suggests the battle will come down to the first two, but according to José Théodore, the last name can’t be excluded from the equation.

The former Canadiens goaltender is eager to see him in action at his next professional training camp.

“I can’t wait to see in net, with young [Jakob] Fowler coming into camp.

He has AHL experience.

I expect an interesting battle in net.”

José Théodore

Jacob Fowler’s mentality greatly impresses Théodore

In another interview this time with RDS, the man who played 648 NHL games said what impresses him most about Fowler is his mindset.

A recent discussion with the 69th overall pick in the 2023 draft confirmed his impressions. Fowler has everything it takes to one day excel in the NHL.

“I ran into him yesterday, he came to talk to me.

We chatted for an hour and I was able to give him some small tips based on what I experienced in my early days.

I liked him even before meeting him, you can see he’s a guy with grit, a guy who likes being in important situations.

After talking to him, I really think he has his head in the right place.

In my opinion, we’ll see him in Montreal pretty soon.”

José Théodore

 

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It’s great to see a former Canadiens goalie guiding a young prospect this way.

Unless there’s a major surprise, Fowler will begin next season in the AHL with the Laval Rocket.

He will have the chance to prove to everyone that he can sustain strong performances in professional hockey over a full season.

Last season with Laval, Fowler played 3 regular season games and 8 in the playoffs.

During the team’s long playoff run, he recorded 3 wins and 3 losses, while maintaining a .902 save percentage and a 2.48 goals-against average.