As of May 5, Sam Carrick could practice again after recovering from a left arm injury, which is good news for the Sabres. Coach Lindy Ruff noted, “(He’s) going to see our doctors today and thinks he’s further along than maybe I portrayed yesterday.” However, Carrick will not be available for this series.

In their first-round matchup against Boston, Buffalo managed to secure one power-play goal. Yet, they face a tough challenge ahead; Montreal scored three power-play goals in their series against Tampa Bay. That context matters because special teams play can significantly influence playoff outcomes.

Currently, Buffalo holds an impressive goals-against average of 2.0 goals per game, while Montreal isn’t far behind at 2.1 goals per game. This slight edge in goaltending could be crucial—if the Sabres continue to get solid goaltending, they should have enough of an advantage elsewhere to handle what could be a memorable series.

The stakes are high for both teams. The last time Buffalo reached the Conference Finals was in 2007, and fans are eager for a return to glory. Rasmus Dahlin expressed his desire for more home support: “I really, really appreciate the fans that came out, but I don’t want to see that many red in the future.”

As they prepare for this pivotal matchup, both teams will rely heavily on their young stars. Players like Tage Thompson and Cole Caufield are expected to make significant impacts. The rivalry between these two Atlantic Division teams has been dormant since the late ’90s—this series could reignite it.

With everything on the line, expect a back-and-forth battle as both teams fight for advancement in the NHL playoffs. The Sabres will need to capitalize on every opportunity while tightening up defensively against Montreal’s skilled forwards like Nick Suzuki and Juraj Slafkovský.

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How is Jakub Dobes transforming the Montreal Canadiens’ goaltending? The answer lies in his remarkable performances that have recently earned him the NHL’s first star of the week for the period ending March 29, 2026.

In just one week, Dobes registered three wins in three games, showcasing his skills with a .962 save percentage and a 1.33 goals against average. He made a career-high 41 saves in a single game against the Carolina Hurricanes, stopping 100 of the 104 shots he faced throughout the week.

This impressive performance has allowed Dobes to surpass legends Patrick Roy and Carey Price for the most wins in a season by a rookie Canadiens goaltender. He is now tied for sixth in team history with 25 wins, a remarkable achievement for a player in his first NHL season.

His success in March has been notable, with a record of 7-3, a 2.21 GAA, and a .927 save percentage. Dobes is currently riding a four-game winning streak and has won five of his last six starts, demonstrating a significant turnaround in his performance.

Key to this transformation has been the recent change in coaching. Dobes’ turnaround began when Marco Marciano replaced Eric Raymond as the Canadiens’ goaltending coach. This shift has seemingly provided Dobes with the guidance he needed to stabilize his game.

As the Canadiens continue their season, Dobes is becoming a crucial component of the team’s playoff hopes. His poise in the crease marks a departure from the inconsistent play that characterized the early stages of the team’s rebuild.

With the playoffs approaching, fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Dobes can maintain this level of performance. His ability to handle pressure and deliver in critical moments will be vital for the Canadiens’ success.

While the future looks promising for Dobes and the Canadiens, details remain unconfirmed about how the team will adapt to the upcoming challenges. The next few games will be crucial in determining their playoff positioning and overall success.

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“Do you agree with @TonyMarinaro and Pierre that Montembeault is done with the Habs or with @BWildeMTL that his time is not done yet?” This question posed by The Sick Podcast encapsulates the uncertainty surrounding Samuel Montembeault’s future with the Montreal Canadiens. As the team navigates a challenging season, Montembeault’s performance has come under scrutiny, leading to speculation about whether he has played his last game in a Canadiens jersey.

Montembeault started the 2025-26 season on a high note, boasting a remarkable 6-0-0 record and a .930 save percentage in October. However, as the season progressed, his performance faltered, culminating in a disappointing .872 save percentage. This decline has prompted the Canadiens to reassess their goaltending situation, particularly with Jakub Dobes emerging as a more reliable option.

The Canadiens are reportedly considering trading Montembeault, who has played 231 NHL games, and his contract, valued at $3.15 million for one more season, adds complexity to any potential deal. Observers have noted that the Canadiens do not want to lose Montembeault for nothing, especially given the precedent set by Alex Nedeljkovic’s trade for a third-round pick last summer.

“A second-round pick for Montembeault?” some analysts have speculated, highlighting the potential return the Canadiens could receive. However, the exact return remains unclear, and the team’s willingness to part with Montembeault may hinge on their ability to secure a veteran goalie to back up Dobes next season.

In a surprising move, the Canadiens recently fired goaltending coach Eric Raymond and promoted Marco Marciano, indicating a shift in strategy. This change could signal a fresh start for Montembeault, but it also raises questions about whether he will be given a final chance to prove himself during training camp.

As discussions about Montembeault’s future continue, the Canadiens are weighing their options carefully. The team is looking for consistency in their goaltending, and Montembeault’s early-season success contrasted sharply with his later struggles, making his future uncertain.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding whether Montembeault will remain with the Canadiens or if he will be traded. As the team prepares for the next phase of the season, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds.

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Carey Price, the iconic goaltender for the Montreal Canadiens, recently made headlines by appearing on the Never Offside podcast, where he reflected on his career and the challenges he faced leading to his retirement. In his last season, Price recorded an impressive 35 wins, 24 losses, and 6 overtime losses, along with a .918 save percentage, showcasing his skill and dedication to the sport.

During the podcast, Price endorsed young goaltender Jacob Fowler, expressing his belief in Fowler’s potential and offering to mentor him as he navigates the early stages of his career. “Always a Hab. Just a teal one for now,” Price remarked, indicating his enduring connection to the Canadiens even as he steps away from the ice.

Price’s retirement was largely due to persistent knee issues that ultimately forced him out of the game he loves. He shared his feelings on the transition, stating, “I miss playing, the camaraderie and the pre-game feeling,” which resonates with many athletes who find it difficult to leave the sport behind.

In a surprising twist, Price revealed that he had anticipated a trade to another club, as his agent had reached out to him the week prior to his retirement announcement. This insight adds a layer of complexity to his departure, suggesting that the decision was not made lightly.

Price’s legacy with the Canadiens is significant, especially as the team has faced challenges in recent years. The Canadiens missed the playoffs in back-to-back seasons for the first time since 2001, a stark contrast to the team’s storied history. Observers are left to ponder how Price’s absence will affect the team’s future performance.

Ryan Poehling, a young player for the Canadiens, made headlines himself by scoring a hat trick in his NHL debut, highlighting the potential of new talent stepping up in the wake of Price’s retirement. “It feels like a dream. I don’t know what to say. Honestly, I’m just in shock right now,” Poehling expressed, capturing the excitement of his achievement.

As Price steps into a mentorship role, the hockey community is eager to see how his guidance will shape the next generation of goaltenders. The endorsement of Fowler is just the beginning, and many are hopeful that Price’s experience will be invaluable to young players.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding Price’s future involvement with the Canadiens or other teams, but his impact on the sport and the players he has inspired will undoubtedly continue to resonate in the hockey world.

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Jean-Francois Damphousse, a notable figure in the hockey world, is currently making waves as a player evaluator for NHL Central Scouting. At 46 years old, Damphousse has transitioned from a goaltending prospect with the Moncton Wildcats to a multifaceted role in the sport, which includes being a goalie coach, owner, general manager, and coach.

His journey in hockey spans over three decades, during which he has gained invaluable experience. Damphousse was drafted in the first round by the New Jersey Devils in the 1997 NHL Entry Draft, marking the beginning of a long and varied career. His friend, Troy Dumville, played a pivotal role in his current position by suggesting he apply for a role at NHL Central Scouting, where he now evaluates players for all 32 NHL franchises.

In his current role, Damphousse has noted some trends in player selection, particularly concerning the height of defensemen. Last season, no defensemen under 6 feet tall were drafted, which raises questions about the evolving criteria for player evaluation in the NHL. “It’s kind of tricky,” he remarked, highlighting the challenges faced by scouts in a competitive environment.

Damphousse’s perspective on scouting is shaped by his extensive background in the sport. He stated, “I’ve touched a little bit of everything,” reflecting on his diverse experiences that inform his evaluations. He understands that every year brings new challenges and opportunities, saying, “The fun thing is, every year is a new start.” This mindset is crucial as he navigates the ever-changing landscape of hockey talent.

As he evaluates players, Damphousse is aware of the pressures young athletes face. He pointed out that today’s players are exposed to rankings and lists from a young age, often tracking their progress from the age of 13 or 14. This early exposure can influence their development and performance, making the role of a scout even more significant in identifying true potential.

Outside of his professional commitments, Damphousse’s family remains an important part of his life. His daughter is currently completing her studies at the University of PEI, while his son plays for the MHL Edmundston Blizzard. This family involvement in sports adds another layer to his understanding of the game and the aspirations of young athletes.

As Damphousse continues his work with NHL Central Scouting, his insights and evaluations will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of hockey. His extensive experience and unique perspective are invaluable assets as he helps guide the next generation of players. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any specific players he is currently evaluating, but his impact on the scouting process is clear.

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In a recent game on March 22, 2026, Jakub Dobes received an official warning from a referee during a match against the New York Islanders. This incident highlights the intensity of the game, which saw the Islanders accumulate a total of 30 penalty minutes.

Dobes, who stands at an impressive 6-foot-4 and is just 24 years old, has made a significant impact this season with a record of 22 wins, 8 losses, and 4 overtime losses. His performance has been a key factor in the Montreal Canadiens’ current standing, with the team holding a record of 38-21-10.

As the Canadiens prepare for their next matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes, Dobes is expected to be the starting goaltender. This decision comes amid uncertainty surrounding Samuel Montembeault’s future with the team, especially with the emergence of both Dobes and fellow goaltender Jacob Fowler.

Montembeault, who has played 231 NHL games, is experiencing a challenging season with a save percentage of .872. His struggles have led to discussions about potential trades, with some speculating about the possibility of a second-round pick being offered for him.

Dobes was selected in the 5th round of the 2020 NHL Draft by the Canadiens and has quickly established himself as a promising talent. His passionate involvement from the bench during games has also garnered attention, showcasing his commitment to the team.

Commentators have noted Dobes’ performance, with one stating, “It’s also worth noting, without much surprise, that Jakub Dobes looked like the #1 goalie.” This sentiment reflects the growing confidence in his abilities as a goaltender.

As the Canadiens navigate the remainder of the season, the dynamics of their goaltending situation will be crucial. With Dobes stepping up, the team may need to make strategic decisions regarding their roster and future trades.

Overall, Jakub Dobes is making a name for himself in the NHL, and his development will be closely watched as the Canadiens aim for success in the playoffs.

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“What that tells me is that he won’t be back in 26-27,” stated Samuel Montembeault, reflecting on his current standing within the Montreal Canadiens organization.

Montembeault, who has been with the Canadiens since October 2, 2021, is experiencing a challenging fifth season. His record stands at 10-8-4, with a goals-against average of 3.43 and a save percentage of .872. In his last two outings, he allowed nine goals on 59 shots, raising concerns about his performance.

The Canadiens made a notable move on March 11, 2026, recalling Jacob Fowler from Laval. According to Renaud Lavoie, “Jacob Fowler’s recall is not related to any injury (or sickness) to another Canadiens goalie,” indicating a strategic decision rather than a response to Montembeault’s struggles.

This shift in goaltending hierarchy has not gone unnoticed. Observers have remarked, “The hierarchy in the Canadiens’ crease just took a major hit,” highlighting the implications of Fowler’s promotion.

Montembeault’s inconsistent performances have led to questions about his future with the team. His recent games included a loss to the Islanders, where he allowed four goals, followed by a six-goal defeat against the Ducks. Such outcomes have prompted discussions about his role moving forward.

As the Canadiens approach the final stretch of the regular season, with 19 games remaining, the pressure mounts. The team currently holds a record of 35-18-10 and sits at 80 points in the standings. Meanwhile, Jakub Dobes has achieved 21 wins this season, further complicating Montembeault’s position.

With the season winding down, Montembeault’s future remains uncertain. The Canadiens’ management has stated that he is neither injured nor ill, yet the recent developments suggest a shift in focus towards other goaltending options.

As the situation evolves, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Montembeault responds to the challenges ahead and what the Canadiens’ next steps will be regarding their goaltending strategy.

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Join us for Instant Reaction, where we share our immediate thoughts on tonight’s matchup between the Calgary Flames and the Ducks, and we encourage our readers to share their own reactions in the comments section below!

Game Summary and Highlights

On Sunday evening, the Calgary Flames visited the Honda Center in Anaheim to wrap up their California road trip with a clash against the Ducks. The match was quite competitive, showcasing impressive goaltending from Calgary’s Devin Cooley and Anaheim’s Lukas Dostal.

The Flames were able to secure a point despite falling to the Ducks with a final score of 3-2 in a shootout.

The summary

Key Player Performances

The Flames struck first, scoring at 9:41 of the opening period thanks to a clever play by their fourth line. As the Flames were making a change in the neutral zone, Ryan Lomberg skated into the Anaheim zone and spotted Joel Farabee charging toward the net. He passed the puck into the slot, where Farabee redirected it with his stick blade, sending the puck past Lukas Dostal and giving the Flames a 1-0 advantage.

The initial period saw both teams with 14 shots on goal. According to Natural Stat Trick, in 5v5 play, the Ducks had 13 scoring chances compared to 11 for the Flames, while high-danger chances were 4 for the Flames and 3 for the Ducks.

In the middle of the second period, at 11:14, the Ducks equalized the score with an unusual goal. Devin Cooley stopped a few close-range shots from Cutter Gauthier. On the final attempt, the puck soared into the air, landed on Cooley’s back, and then bounced into the net, leveling the game at 1-1.

Goaltending Showdown

Approximately five minutes later, at the 16:10 mark of the second period, the Flames responded for their goaltender during a power play. Following a minor penalty drawn by John Beecher, the Flames executed their strategy, culminating in a fantastic wrist shot from Yegor Sharangovich that struck the post and eluded Dostal, giving the Flames a 2-1 advantage.

During the second period, Kevin Bahl experienced a frightening moment when a point shot deflected off a stick and struck him directly in the face. He received treatment during the intermission and was able to return for the third period.

In the second period, the Flames outshot their opponents 13-12. When it came to 5v5 scoring opportunities, the Flames led 12-8, and in high-danger chances, they were ahead 7-5.

Fan Reactions and Comments

With 10:41 remaining in the third period and Mikael Backlund in the penalty box, the Ducks equalized with a power play goal. Gauthier scored his second of the match, firing a one-timer past Cooley to level the score at 2-2.

In the third period, the Ducks outshot their opponents 9-6. When it came to 5v5 scoring opportunities, the Ducks led 6-5, while high-danger chances were also in their favor at 3-2.

This match needed additional time to find a victor. Opportunities arose for both teams, notably a significant chance for Nazem Kadri. With only 24.6 seconds left in overtime, Morgan Frost was penalized for interference. Cooley made a crucial glove save at the buzzer on a one-timer from Gauthier, preventing the game from going to a shootout.

During the skills challenge, Leo Carlsson and Mason McTavish found the net for Anaheim, while Nazem Kadri netted one for the Flames. Matvei Gridin hit the post, but the Ducks triumphed in the shootout, ultimately securing a 3-2 victory in the game.

Reasons the Flames earned a point

The Flames faced off against the Ducks in their third game over four nights, including a back-to-back matchup, following a three-week break. They maintained a solid performance throughout the game. In regulation, both teams were even on special teams and at even strength, with the Ducks being a formidable opponent not playing on consecutive nights. Given the circumstances, it’s remarkable how closely contested this game turned out to be.

The outcome of the extra point was ultimately determined by the skills competition, which can frequently resemble a game of chance.

After being sidelined for the initial two matches of the journey, Ryan Lomberg and Brayden Pachal made their appearances in the lineup.

Zayne Parekh and Martin Pospisil were substituted out of the roster.

Flames versus Ducks

Come hang out with Cami Kepke and me right after the game for After Burner!

Coming up

The Flames (24-28-7) are returning to their home arena. They will face the Dallas Stars at the Saddledome on Tuesday evening, marking the start of a three-game homestand.

This piece is sponsored by Platinum Mitsubishi.

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