Why a Trade for Samuel Montembeault to the New York Rangers is Unlikely

Samuel Montembeault will not be traded to the New York Rangers anytime soon, according to analyst David Pagnotta on Morning Cuppa Hockey, as reported by danslescoulisses.com and dose.ca on October 21, 2026. Despite having to make do without Igor Shesterkin and a 7-2-1 run in their last ten games, the Rangers are unlikely to meet Montreal’s asking price for the Quebec-born netminder.

New York Roster Realities And Front Office Ties

The Rangers currently rely on Dylan Garand and Spencer Martin in the crease while Igor Shesterkin remains sidelined, prompting speculation around the league that general manager Chris Drury might target an external solution. However, it was reported that Montreal general manager Kent Hughes will not simply hand Montembeault over to accommodate a rival club. Jeff Gorton will not pressure Hughes to assist his former organization, as hockey operations in Montreal focus strictly on maximizing player value.

Goaltending Options Across The National Hockey League

While Pagnotta indicated that an acquisition is unlikely unless a remarkable opportunity falls into the team’s lap, rumeursdetransaction.com reported that New York has evaluated a broader list of potential targets. That separate coverage identified Jordan Binnington, John Gibson, Darcy Kuemper, and Samuel Montembeault as the four primary candidates monitored by observers following Shesterkin’s long-term absence.

Montreal Decision And Future Roster Pressure

Montembeault faces a complex situation in Montreal with young prospects Jakub Dobes and Jacob Fowler competing for playing time. rumeursdetransaction.com noted that if Fowler maintains his current performance level, returning him to Laval becomes virtually untenable, which could eventually force a decision from the Canadiens’ front office regarding their three-goalie logjam once Montembeault recovers from his injury.

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