The Ottawa Senators are apparently looking at the NHL trade market for some goaltending depth behind Linus Ullmark. One name connected to the franchise is Montreal Canadiens goaltender Samuel Montembeault, whose future is uncertain after sliding down the Canadiens’ goalie depth chart. That move could prove to be one of the more interesting NHL trade rumours of the offseason.The Senators leaned heavily on veteran James Reimer at times during the 2025-26 NHL season, and that raised questions about long-term stability in goal. Samuel Montembeault could be a realistic trade candidate with Montreal Canadiens prospect Jacob Fowler developing quickly and Jakub Dobes earning trust.
Ottawa Senators explore Samuel Montembeault trade with Montreal Canadiens
Samuel Montembeault provides the Ottawa Senators with an experienced NHL-level backup with starting experience. The Montreal Canadiens netminder has one more year on his contract at a cap-friendly cap hit, making him a reasonable target for the Ottawa front office.The biggest concern for the Senators heading into next season is workload management for Linus Ullmark. With an expanded NHL schedule, Ottawa can’t afford to overuse Ullmark, especially after leaning on 38-year-old James Reimer in key moments last season.Montembeault could potentially play around 25-30 games, giving the Senators stability in net. Another important element is the cost of acquisition. NHL sources believe the Montreal Canadiens may place a premium on cap flexibility and the development of younger goalies.If the move works, the Senators will have a reliable tandem next to Ullmark. If it doesn’t pan out, Ottawa could still waive Montembeault or send him to the American Hockey League to ease the financial burden.The situation also illustrates a shift in Montreal’s organisational direction. Jakub Doble’s increased opportunity this year and Jacob Fowler’s emergence have created more competition in the Canadiens system. That has only fuelled speculation about Samuel Montembeault’s long-term future with the franchise.This potential NHL trade rumour is more of a practical offseason solution than a blockbuster for the Ottawa Senators. A dependable depth goaltending quietly could become one of the team’s top priorities before the 2026-27 NHL season begins.