Trade option for Oilers' goaltending now off the table

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Liam McCormick
December 1, 2023 (8:18)

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The Oilers' struggles in net so far this season have been well documented. Jack Campbell has struggled enough to land himself in the minor leagues, and Stuart Skinner hasn't had an encouraging start. The team was heavily rumoured to be in on every goaltender available in the trade market, but now it appears one option is off the table.

Moments ago, NHL insider Frank Seravalli reported that the Montreal Canadiens have signed goaltender Samuel Montembeault to a three year contract worth $3.15M annually.

The Oilers were heavily connected to Montembeault in trade speculation this year. The Habs have a surplus at the position, and had the option to trade from one of Montembeault, Jake Allen, and Cayden Primeau. The Oilers still heavily scouted the Canadiens in recent weeks, so perhaps their attention will shift to those goalies.

Losing out on Montembeault could end up as a blessing in disguise, however. At 27 years old and playing through parts of four seasons, Montembault has never had a save percentage higher than .901, or a goals against average lower than 3.04.

The Oilers may still be hoping their existing tandem can find their game and Campbell can make a comeback from the AHL. However, if GM Ken Holland is to make a serious upgrade to the position, the team should pursue a goaltender with a much better track record than Montembeault - their Stanley Cup aspirations depend on it.