Sam Montembeault is Canada’s Third Goalie

Montembeault won't have a seat on the bench.

Pierre LeBrun reported that Sam Montembeault is Team Canada’s third goalie. I don’t think anybody is surprised at this. Also, he won’t be dressed during the game. Again. Not a surprise. He is around just in case and that’s always the third goalie’s role in international tournaments.

For any player being picked by their country to be on a roster of all-star players is a great compliment. He gets to practice with the team. He is a part of the team. He just isn’t going to be on the bench and there’s always a chance he could see action even though it’s unlikely in a short series but all those things can happen. You never know but he’s an insurance policy.

Putting on the sweater is a dream come true for any player. But in Montembeault’s case, he is now on the radar for the 2026 Olympics. If he has a strong finish to this season and a good start next year, he could be named to that team. Again, another honor even if he never gets into a game. That’s part of the risk when you agree to go.

Chris Johnston said there are some financial gains to pocket from the tournament and the ultimate prize is getting that gold medal during the ceremony. Any medal is great. So again, this is a great experience for any player. There is no negative for this. There is no downside by playing in this game and not every player wants a vacation instead.