Samuel Montembeault on the Brink of Major Announcement That Could Change Everything
Once unlikely, it now feels inevitable: Samuel Montembeault is emerging as a strong candidate to represent Team Canada at the upcoming Winter Olympics.
It's a bold statement that speaks volumes about how far Montembeault has come-a goalie drafted 77th overall in 2015 by the Florida Panthers who, through patience and hard work, has risen to become Montreal's undisputed number-one netminder.
During the 2024-2025 season, he not only solidified his role as the Canadiens' defensive cornerstone, but also gained the trust of Hockey Canada thanks to his consistent performances and poise under pressure.
With a strong win-loss record, a goals-against average among the best of Canadian NHL goalies, and several elite-level performances against top-tier teams, Montembeault has silenced the doubters.
According to journalist Stu Cowan of The Montreal Gazette, the Montreal Canadiens' goaltender is practically a lock.
How would you rate Nick Suzuki, Noah Dobson and Samuel Montembeault's chances of making Canada's 2026 Olympic team?
StuCowan1: "Dobson I'd be surprised but the other 2 I think have a really good chance"
StuCowan1: "Dobson I'd be surprised but the other 2 I think have a really good chance"
His composure in net, ability to handle tight games, and sense of timing have impressed both coaches and league analysts.
But beyond the stats it's his impact in the locker room and his quiet leadership that have cemented his rise. In a young team undergoing a rebuild, he has often been the stabilizing force-stealing games on his own and helping establish a hard-working culture.
This Would Be a Fully Deserved Honor for Samuel Montembeault
Olympic recognition is often the ultimate achievement for a professional athlete, and Montembeault now appears ready to reach that milestone.
"Since Canada only invited three goalies, we now have a good idea of who will make the trip to Milan with Team Canada.
The real question is what role Montembeault will play, as he had to settle for a third goalie role at the 4 Nations."
- Jonathan Di Gregorio, DLC
The real question is what role Montembeault will play, as he had to settle for a third goalie role at the 4 Nations."
- Jonathan Di Gregorio, DLC
He had already represented Canada brilliantly at the 2023 IIHF World Championship, where he played a central role in capturing the gold medal.
There's still a long road ahead before Team Canada's final roster is announced for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo. But if Montembeault continues this trajectory, his name will almost certainly be on that list.
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