Canadiens Dismiss Goalie Coach Eric Raymond Amid Challenging Season for Montreal
The Montreal Canadiens have officially dismissed goalie coach Eric Raymond during a challenging season. This decision was announced by Jeff Gorton, the president of hockey operations, on Wednesday.
Coaching Changes Amid Struggles
Raymond had been the Canadiens’ goalie coach since the 2021-22 season. Following his departure, Marco Marciano will take over his responsibilities on an interim basis. Marciano previously served as the goalie coach for the AHL’s Laval Rocket.
Underperforming Goaltenders
This season has been particularly tough for the Canadiens’ netminders. Sam Montembeault, the team’s current starter, holds a .868 save percentage and a 3.46 goals-against average (GAA). Last season, he posted a .902 save percentage and a 2.80 GAA, reflecting a significant decline.
In December, Montembeault trained with Marciano during a conditioning loan with the Rocket. Additionally, rookie goalie Jakub Dobes has seen his performance drop. After being named the NHL’s third star of the month in October, he now carries a .890 save percentage and a 2.96 GAA.
Developmental Moves
In reaction to their goaltending issues, the Canadiens recalled 21-year-old Jacob Fowler from Laval sooner than planned. Fowler has shown promise with a .902 save percentage and a 2.62 GAA over 10 NHL starts. However, on January 16, the Canadiens decided to send him back to the Rocket, concluding a three-goalie rotation.
Current Team Standings
Despite the goaltending struggles, Montreal holds the Eastern Conference’s first wild-card spot. As of now, their team save percentage stands at .879, placing them 25th in the league.
- Current Goalie Statistics:
- Sam Montembeault: .868 SV%, 3.46 GAA
- Jakub Dobes: .890 SV%, 2.96 GAA
- Jacob Fowler: .902 SV%, 2.62 GAA in NHL
The Canadiens’ recent coaching change signals a critical moment in their efforts to stabilize goaltending as they aim for a successful season at Filmogaz.com.
