Jakub Dobes posted 29 wins in 43 games during the 2025-26 season with a 2.78 goals-against average and .901 save percentage.
Dobes locks in number-one role
Dobes recorded a 29-10-4 record while leading all rookie goaltenders in wins. His 43 appearances exceeded Montembeault’s 25 games by a wide margin. The July 2, 2026, three-year extension at $5.357 million average annual value runs from 2027-28 through 2029-30. This deal follows Dobes’ strong playoff showing where he led all netminders with 13.3 goals saved above expected.
Montembeault finished 2025-26 with a 10-8-4 record, 3.43 goals-against average and .872 save percentage. His numbers marked the worst season of his seven-year NHL career. The tandem’s combined save percentage sat at .883, ranking 28th league-wide.
Kent Hughes stated the organization would not carry three goalies into next season. This decision directly follows Dobes’ extension and contrasts with earlier roster experiments that included Jacob Fowler in limited NHL action.
Montembeault’s final year under contract
Montembeault holds a $3.15 million cap hit through the end of 2026-27. His contract becomes unrestricted free agency eligible immediately afterward. Multiple reports indicate Hughes could explore trades this summer given the depth chart clarity.
Fowler appeared in 17 games during 2025-26 with a 2.43 goals-against average and .908 save percentage. Those AHL-heavy numbers position him as the long-term backup candidate once Montembeault departs. The organization drafted Fowler to develop behind established NHL options.
Dobes’ extension timing, announced one day after free agency opened, signals management prioritizes stability in net. This approach differs from teams like the Rangers that pursued broader retools during the same period.
Path to 2027-28 and beyond
The 2026-27 campaign will test whether Dobes sustains his rookie-year workload of over 40 starts. Montembeault’s veteran presence provides insurance during any early inconsistencies. Fowler’s continued minor-league seasoning reduces immediate pressure on the NHL roster.
Unless a trade materializes before training camp, the tandem opens next season with Dobes handling the majority of starts and Montembeault in the backup slot. This setup aligns with Hughes’ public comments on reducing goalie depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.