In a week marked by speculation and quiet buzz across Montreal’s hockey circles, a single interview has sent shockwaves through the Canadiens’ fanbase and the wider NHL community.

When general manager Kent Hughes sat down with respected analyst Marc Denis on RDS, few expected the conversation to confirm one of the most intriguing rumors swirling around the team’s latest acquisition—a towering 6-foot-4 goaltender whose arrival has sparked a wave of questions, theories, and behind-the-scenes chatter.

With the Canadiens’ recent announcement of a professional tryout contract, social media and sports forums lit up with whispers about what this move could mean for the team’s goaltending depth, especially as the preseason approaches and roster decisions loom.

Was this just a routine signing, or did it signal something more strategic, perhaps even a calculated insurance policy for a potential shakeup at the most critical position on the ice?

Kent Hughes’ response to Marc Denis was as direct as it was revealing, but what lies beneath that simple answer?

How does this decision fit into the Canadiens’ broader plans, and what could it mean for the fate of their current roster? The full story is more layered than it seems—and fans won’t want to miss the details.

Photo of Kent Hughes

Photo credit: SportsNet

In an interview on RDS with the excellent Marc Denis, general manager Kent Hughes confirmed a rumor circulating about his recent acquisition.

A few days ago, the Montreal Canadiens announced the signing of a professional tryout contract with 6-foot-4 goaltender Kevin Mandolese.

Immediately after this announcement, there were whispers that Mandolese could serve as a form of insurance, in case the Habs were forced to place goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen on waivers and if he were immediately claimed.

Well, that is exactly what Kent Hughes confirmed in his interview with Marc Denis on RDS.

Kent Hughes Confirms Rumor Behind His Latest Acquisition, Kevin Mandolese

Here’s an excerpt of what the Canadiens’ GM said:

“Could Kevin Mandolese be protection against waivers, if the decision was to put Kaapo Kahkonen there?”
– Marc Denis

Kent Hughes’ answer:

“Yes.”

A very clear response!

So, if Kahkonen is claimed on waivers, expect Kevin Mandolese to become the Canadiens’ number four goaltender.

Kevin Mandolese, 25, is a 6-foot-4, 180-pound goaltender from Blainville, Quebec. Drafted by Ottawa in 2018 (157th overall), he has appeared in three NHL games, posting a 1-2-0 record with a 3.30 GAA and an impressive .916 save percentage.

Full source and interview: RDS Consistency Is the Motto in 2025-2026 (interview between Marc Denis and Kent Hughes)