In the high-stakes world of professional hockey, every decision—especially those involving a team’s starting goaltender—can ignite fierce debate and passionate reactions.

The recent selection of Montreal Canadiens netminder Samuel Montembeault for an international tournament has set off a firestorm of opinions among fans, analysts, and, most notably, the media.

While some celebrate Montembeault’s rise and contributions to the Canadiens’ recent playoff run, others have chosen a more controversial path, raising questions that go far beyond on-ice performance.

A recent remark from a prominent Toronto journalist has sent shockwaves through the hockey community, sparking outrage and heated discussion across social media and sports talk shows.

The comment, buried within a broader article, has been interpreted by many as a direct challenge to Montembeault’s legitimacy and the motivations behind his selection for Team Canada.

As the story unfolds, respected voices in the hockey world have stepped forward to defend Montembeault, adding new layers to an already complex and emotionally charged narrative.

What exactly was said to cause such an uproar? Why has this particular comment resonated so strongly with fans and experts alike? Dive into the full story to uncover the details behind the controversy, the passionate responses, and what it all means for Samuel Montembeault’s future.

Montreal Canadiens Goaltender Samuel Montembeault

Photo credit: Pro Football Network

During the 4 Nations tournament, the selection of Samuel Montembeault sparked reactions from some hockey fans.

It’s normal for people to have differing opinions, but a Toronto journalist made a very underhanded remark about Samuel Montembeault.

Last year, Montembeault proved that he can be the number-one goaltender for the Montreal Canadiens.

He helped the team qualify for the playoffs and played a very important role.

Even though he didn’t get a chance to play in the 4 Nations tournament, he could definitely have an important role in the upcoming Olympic Games.

However, journalist Steve Simmons made a questionable comment about the Canadiens’ goalie.

A Toronto Media Outlet Makes a Controversial Remark About Samuel Montembeault

Making headlines for the wrong reasons, journalist Steve Simmons recently wrote an article about the Toronto Blue Jays.

In his article, there’s a “miscellaneous” section.

He covers other topics, and this time it was about Team Canada ahead of the Olympics.

While speaking about Samuel Montembeault, he stated:

“Montembeault is a French-Canadian, which helps his chances to become the third goalie.”
-Steve Simmons

This comment clearly targets Montembeault’s selection, suggesting a lack of merit and implying his selection was made simply to please Quebecers.

Jimmy Murphy responded with a very interesting article.

“With all due respect, Steve, that’s disrespecting Montembeault.”

-Jimmy Murphy

That’s an excellent rebuttal from Murphy, and his stance is commendable.

In the end, this situation will likely continue to spark discussion in the coming weeks.