Samuel Montembeault did not have the pleasure of starting the Canadian’s season in net, but he will at least have the task of defending his team’s net during his return to Montreal on Saturday against the Chicago Blackhawks.
Some observers believed that Montembeault had earned the Habs’ number one position with his performances at the end of last season, then by helping Canada win gold at the World Championship. However, it was Jake Allen who faced the shots of the Toronto Maple Leafs on Wednesday, when the Canadian lost 6-5 in a shootout.
Friday, Montembeault said he was obviously happy to play the Habs’ local opening match for the first time in his career. But would he have preferred to play the first game of the season or the first game at the Bell Centre?
” Both ! », exclaimed Montembeault, bursting out laughing.
“But in Montreal, it will be so electrifying at the Bell Centre,” he added. I’m eager to. This will be our first “real” home game since April. It’s going to be exciting. »
The 26-year-old Quebecer, however, insisted that he was comfortable with the three-goal waltz to start the season.
“We have three good goalies and that doesn’t bother me,” said Montembeault. I look at it as if I had a little more time to prepare for my first match. I was able to work with Eric (Raymond, the goalkeeper coach). I’m looking forward to tomorrow (Saturday). »
Rarely voluble about his goaltenders, head coach Martin St-Louis was no different Friday, when asked about the thinking behind the choice to send Montembeault in front of the net against the Blackhawks.
“There is nothing in particular that motivates this decision,” he said. The season is going to be long and we are counting on three goalkeepers. He is the one who will play the next match. »
The scenario might have been different if Allen or Montembeault had shined during camp. Both put up disastrous stats with averages over 4.00 and save percentages below .860.
“I think I did very well in the intrasquad games,” said Montembeault when commenting on his performances during camp. But in preparatory matches, I always gave away an unlucky goal or a goal that I would like to see again. It’s important to eliminate those this season. »
Matheson’s community involvement highlighted
Defender Mike Matheson received the Jean-Béliveau award for the 2022-23 season. This award is given to the Canadiens player who has stood out the most through his actions and his generosity within the community.
“It’s really special even if we’re not doing this to receive this recognition,” Matheson said. It nevertheless remains a great honor to be associated with a name like that. It’s special for a guy from Montreal. »
Matheson is an ambassador for the Champions for Life Foundation, which promotes physical activity and healthy lifestyle habits among children.
Jean Béliveau’s widow, Élise, was present at the CN Sports Complex on Friday to present the trophy to Matheson. The trophy is accompanied by a $25,000 donation from the Canadiens Children’s Foundation to an organization of the honored player’s choice.