The Montreal Canadiens are experiencing a pleasant problem in net with the stellar performance of Jakub Dobes. Dobes, a 24-year-old Czech netminder drafted by the Canadiens in 2020, has taken the league by storm, starting the 2025-26 season with six consecutive wins. His impressive play includes a stellar 1.97 goals-against average and a .930 save percentage, placing him among the league's best. He also became the fourth goalie in Canadiens history to start a season with six wins, joining legends like Carey Price and Ken Dryden.
With Dobes's entry-level contract signed in 2023 and a two-year contract extension signed in July 2025, expiring at the end of the 2026-27 season, the Canadiens' management will soon face a crucial decision regarding his future. The situation draws parallels to the Chicago Blackhawks' handling of their young goaltender, Spencer Knight. Knight, similarly highly touted, recently signed a three-year, $17.5 million extension with an average annual value of $5.83 million. However, the Canadiens should consider a different approach with Dobes.
One path Montreal could take is to hold off on a long-term, high-value contract. Dobes has had an exceptional start, but a larger sample size might be necessary to assess his true potential. Awarding a lucrative, long-term contract based on a hot streak could backfire if his performance regresses. Instead, the Canadiens could opt for a shorter-term "prove it" deal. This would give Dobes the opportunity to demonstrate his long-term consistency and solidify his position as the Canadiens' long-term solution in goal.
Another route is prioritizing player development. Developing a goaltender is a marathon, not a sprint. The Canadiens should focus on providing Dobes with the resources and support he needs to continue improving, such as specialized goalie coaches and consistent playing time. This could mean resisting the urge to thrust him into a full-time NHL role prematurely. A balanced approach, alternating between the NHL and AHL, could provide Dobes with valuable experience while managing the pressure.
The Blackhawks' situation with Knight offers a cautionary tale. Knight, drafted 13th overall in 2019, has shown flashes of brilliance but has also struggled with consistency. Chicago's decision to commit to a long-term contract carries risk, especially considering Knight's limited NHL experience. While Knight's stats in 2024-25 showed promise, with a .902 save percentage and 2.72 goals-against average, his performance in 15 games with Chicago was less impressive, featuring a .896 save percentage and a 3.18 goals-against average.
The Canadiens have a unique opportunity with Dobes. His impressive debut and stellar start to the season have ignited excitement in Montreal. However, the team must remain patient and pragmatic. By prioritizing player development and considering a more measured contract approach, the Canadiens can avoid potential pitfalls and maximize Dobes's potential to become a cornerstone of the franchise for years to come.
