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Latest Laval Rocket roster move signals what's next for Samuel Montembeault in Montreal
When the Rocket goes to get a goaltender from Trois-Rivières, it's rarely just to decorate the bench.
The Laval Rocket has confirmed the recall of Hunter Jones, the number-one goaltender for the Trois-Rivières Lions.
Within the organization, this kind of move always triggers the same question. Is the Montreal Canadiens organization about to make a move in goal?
Jones, 25, arrives with workload and numbers that speak for themselves. With the Lions, he has posted a record of 8-2-0 in 12 games. He also recorded a 3-0 shutout with 27 saves during a weekend that got people talking.
"Goaltender Hunter Jones has been recalled from the Trois-Rivières Lions."
- Laval Rocker
- Laval Rocker
Samuel Montembeault with the Canadiens?
Meanwhile, Samuel Montembeault has still been tied to the Rocket since December 16, when the Canadiens assigned him to Laval on a conditioning stint.
At 29, he hasn't disappeared from the picture, but the window is short. The stint cannot exceed 14 consecutive days, which forces a quick decision.
Montembeault did get starts in Cleveland, including one 5-2 game and another that ended 2-0. It's the classic scenario: get back into rhythm, see how the body responds, then return to the NHL routine.
In addition, his 2025-26 record with the Canadiens is clear: 5-6-1, a 3.65 goals-against average, and a .857 save percentage.
So why recall Jones now? If Montreal brings Montembeault back into its group, Laval must keep two goaltenders available, period.
Jones' recall helps stabilize the chain between the Rocket and the Lions, and it looks like a very strong clue.
And yes, it also affects Jacob Fowler. If Montembeault goes back up, it opens the door to a plan that keeps Fowler with the Canadiens, at least for now.