Breaking News Update: Canadiens Reassign Fowler and Beck to Laval Rocket; Three-Goaltender Rotation Discontinued
In a significant roster move, the Montreal Canadiens have loaned goaltender Jacob Fowler and forward Owen Beck to the AHL’s Laval Rocket. The decision to send Fowler back to the Rocket signals the end of the Canadiens’ three-goaltender rotation that has been in effect since late December. Fowler, who struggled in his last outing against the Buffalo Sabres, has compiled a 4-4-2 record with Montreal this season, with a .902 save percentage and a 2.62 goals-against average. Meanwhile, Beck, a 2022 second-round pick, has one goal in 15 games with the Canadiens this season. The team will look to bounce back from their loss against the Sabres as they face another Atlantic Division rival, the Ottawa Senators, on Saturday.
The Montreal Canadiens Shuffle as Fowler and Beck Head to Laval Rocket: What’s Next?
The Montreal Canadiens have made a significant move, sending goaltender Jacob Fowler and forward Owen Beck to the AHL’s Laval Rocket. This transaction, announced on Friday, signals changes in the team’s strategy and raises questions about their upcoming games.
End of the Three-Goaltender Rotation
The assignment of Jacob Fowler to the Laval Rocket brings an end to the Canadiens’ temporary three-goaltender rotation, a strategy they had been using since the tail end of December.
Jacob Fowler’s Season So Far
- Pro Tip:
- Jacob Fowler has had a mixed season with the Habs, compiling a 4-4-2 record, a .902 save percentage, and a 2.62 goals-against average.
Fowler’s most recent appearance, a loss against the Buffalo Sabres, saw him concede four goals on 26 shots. This performance may have contributed to the decision to demote him. However, it’s worth noting that Fowler was called up when both Sam Montembeault and Jakub Dobes were struggling, indicating the team’s faith in his abilities.
Montreal’s Goaltending Dilemma
Fowler’s demotion leaves Montembeault and Dobes as the primary goaltending options for the Canadiens. However, both have had their share of struggles this season. Dobes, despite seeing only two starts in 2026, has a 14-5-3 record but with a .888 save percentage and a 3.01 GAA. Montembeault fares little better, with an 8-6-2 record, an .874 save percentage, and a 3.35 GAA. Nevertheless, Montembeault has a 3-0-1 record after returning from an AHL conditioning stint, which could give him an edge in upcoming games.
Owen Beck’s Journey
In other roster news, forward Owen Beck was also loaned to the Laval Rocket. The 2022 second-round pick has had limited ice time with the Canadiens, notching just one goal in 15 games. His career record with the team stands at one goal and two points in 28 games. Beck’s demotion suggests the coaching staff sees more development opportunities for him at the AHL level.
What Lies Ahead for the Canadiens
The Canadiens will look to rebound from Fowler’s recent performance as they face another Atlantic Division rival, the Ottawa Senators, on Saturday. This matchup could provide valuable insights into how Montreal plans to proceed with their goaltending situation and the future of their young players.
FAQs
- Is Jacob Fowler’s demotion a sign of the Canadiens losing faith in him?
- Not necessarily. Fowler was called up when other goalies were struggling, indicating the team’s belief in his abilities. This move could be a chance for him to gain more playing time and confidence in Laval.
- What does Owen Beck’s loan mean for his future with the Canadiens?
- Beck’s demotion is likely an opportunity for him to gain more ice time and develop his skills in the AHL. This doesn’t necessarily reflect on his future with the team, as many young players benefit from time spent in the minors.
Did you know?
The Laval Rocket has been the Canadiens’ AHL affiliate since 2017, providing a vital pipeline for young talent to develop and eventually contribute to the NHL team.
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