Samuel Montembeault

Raised in the Sainte‑Gertrude sector of Bécancour, Samuel Montembeault learned his craft in Quebec minor hockey and established himself with the Trois‑Rivières Estacades before moving up to major junior with the Blainville‑Boisbriand Armada. Early recognition in the junior AAA ranks led to his selection by the Armada in the 2013 QMJHL draft and steady responsibility as a starter in the junior circuit.

Over four seasons in the QMJHL, Montembeault became a fixture for the Armada, appearing in a high volume of games and taking part in marquee junior events such as the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game. His postseason form and steady numbers attracted NHL attention: the Florida Panthers picked him 77th overall in the 2015 draft, and he signed an entry‑level deal in May 2016 before completing his final junior season.

Turning pro, Montembeault began in the AHL with the Springfield Thunderbirds and made his NHL debut for Florida in March 2019. He split time between the AHL and NHL over the following seasons, earning recalls and building experience in NHL starts. After being placed on waivers by Florida in October 2021, Montreal claimed him the next day, giving him a fresh opportunity with the Canadiens and expanded NHL duties.

In Montreal he has alternated between backup and starting roles, delivering standout games including his first NHL shutout and stretches of heavy workload when the team required it. His increased responsibilities culminated in career highs for games played in some seasons and a central role in the Canadiens’ push back into the playoffs, including his first NHL postseason starts.

In plain terms, Montembeault is a goaltender forged by progression through Quebec juniors, the AHL and the NHL. His game rests on adaptability and endurance: able to step up from a relief role to extended starting stints, he has shown the capacity to string together strong performances over demanding stretches.