Montreal Canadiens: Statement on Jake Allen and Cayden Primeau not unanimous

As of today, the Canadiens have four goaltenders. Kent Hughes will therefore have the option of sending one or two of them to waivers, trading one, or starting with three goalies with the CH.

While many observers see the matter as closed, with the duo of Jake Allen and Samuel Montembeault in Montreal, Cayden Primeau in the lineup with a view to sending him to the Rocket, and Casey DeSmith traded, not everyone agrees.

According to former CH goaltending coach Stéphane Waite, Jake Allen's contract is the worst Kent Hughes has offered so far, and he's reportedly trying to trade him.

What's more, Waite wouldn't even keep DeSmith to back up Montembeault; he'd give Primeau a real chance. According to him, the American is ready to take the next step.


Allen still gave the CH some good service. Even though the 2nd half of last year's season was not in his favor, he remains a solid second goaltender. Monty should have the net most of the time, but Allen is the perfect candidate to support him in this task, in my opinion.

Conversely, is Cayden Primeau really ready for the NHL? That's a question we have to ask ourselves. If Samuel were to suffer an injury, would you rather have Allen or Primeau? Personally, I'd take Allen without hesitation.