The New York Rangers still need help behind the crease after Igor Shesterkin’s injury.
They were never true front-runners to acquire Connor Hellebuyck from the Winnipeg Jets, but they still need a boost in the net.
The Montreal Canadiens could have what they need.
Rangers Could Land Canadiens’ Sam Montembeault
According to Adam Gretz of Bleacher Report, 29-year-old Sam Montembeault would be a good fit for the Rangers.
Now, acquiring him would require New York to spend some cash, but it wouldn’t be anything astronomical compared to other players — approximately $3.15 million per season.
“One name that could be available and make sense: Montreal’s Sam Montembeault,” Gretz proposed. “The Canadiens have two young goalies that they really like, Jakub Dobes and Jacob Fowler, who should be the future, while Montembeault is in the final year of his contract and likely the odd man out. He has had some really good seasons in the past and could be a solid veteran to accompany Garand for this season.”
Montembeault is now in his seventh year playing in the NHL, with five of those years having been spent with the Canadiens.
He played his first two seasons with the Florida Panthers.
The Panthers selected him with the No. 16 pick in the third round of the 2015 NHL draft.
During his 2025-26 campaign, he skated in 25 games, starting 23.
He logged a 3.43 goals-against average with an .872 save percentage.
Montembeault owns a career 3.23 GAA with an .896 SV% through 231 games.
In his age-29 season, he brings veteran experience that should entice New York, but he still has enough young energy on the ice.
Where Do the Rangers Currently Stand?
Heading into their next clash, the Rangers are second in the Metropolitan Division at 7-4-1 overall.
The Carolina Hurricanes have edged them out at 8-2-2 overall.
New York is coming off a tight 5-4 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs on Thursday. Oct. 22.
Their next matchup is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 24, at 7 p.m. ET against the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre.
If the Rangers can acquire a reliable netminder, fans could expect to see the climb in the standings.
However, there’s always a chance the organization will move in a different direction.
New York Rangers Trade Pitch Lands Montreal Canadiens Star Goaltender