“I know, he is considered. We’re going to learn all about it tomorrow. He is a goalkeeper who continues to improve. He’s a really good kid. So we’ll see. »
These words from Martin St-Louis, about Samuel Montembeault and his potential selection for the 4 Nations tournament, say a lot about the measured approach of the Canadiens head coach.
Since the start of the season, Montembeault has alternated between solid performances and more laborious ones, a portrait which does not necessarily position him as an obvious choice for a position among the world elite.
With a record of 7 wins, a save percentage of 0.901 and a goals against average of 2.99, the Quebec goalie is 23rd in the NHL for efficiency.
These figures, although honorable, struggle to convince that he can compete with the best goalkeepers in the country.
Martin St-Louis, without saying it directly, seems to suggest a certain reservation regarding this selection.
“He continues to progress”he recalled, while emphasizing Montembeault’s human qualities.
But behind these compliments, we feel that the coach would probably prefer to see his goalkeeper concentrate on his season with the Canadian rather than dispersing himself in an international tournament.
Montembeault’s statistics this season tell a complex story.
On several occasions, he was able to keep the team at arm’s length, but it is also clear that the Canadiens, defensively, did not always offer him the necessary support.
His combativeness is undeniable, but in a season where expectations for the Habs are moderate, his daily development could be prioritized rather than exposure to such demanding competition.
Samuel, for his part, maintains a humble state of mind in the face of this opportunity.
When questioned, he simply replied that he “does not control these decisions” and that he is always honored to be mentioned in such discussions.
But for him too, the priorities must be clear: continue to establish himself as a pillar in the Canadiens’ cage and prove that he can be consistent night after night.
In reality, a selection of Montembeault for the 4 Nations could be as much a source of pride as a trap.
A mixed performance on an international stage could damage his confidence, while a good performance could confirm his progress in the eyes of the organization.
But at this stage of his career, Montembeault’s biggest challenge remains proving that he can be a reliable goaltender, regardless of the opponent or the context.
Martin St-Louis, always cautious in his statements, seems to want to temper expectations, both for Montembeault and for the public. “We’ll see”he concluded, as if to remind us that nothing has yet been decided.
While waiting for the official decision, one thing is certain: Samuel Montembeault will have to continue to progress to cement his role in this rebuilding team.
And for that, he may have to prioritize his development in Montreal rather than giving in to the lure of the international spotlight.
To be continued…
