On a chilly October evening at the Bell Centre, the Montreal Canadiens faced off against the Los Angeles Kings in what, on the surface, seemed like another early-season clash. The crowd buzzed with anticipation, the energy was palpable, and for most fans, the story was about two teams battling for crucial points. But as the puck dropped and the game unfolded, something far more significant was happening behind the scenes—something that could alter the trajectory of one player’s career and perhaps even impact the fate of Team Canada at the upcoming Olympic Games.

Unbeknownst to many, the Bell Centre was playing host to more than just the usual array of hockey enthusiasts. High above the ice, in the executive suites, some of the most influential minds in Canadian hockey had gathered. These weren’t just ordinary spectators; they were the architects of Team Canada’s Olympic roster, the men tasked with assembling a squad capable of capturing gold on the world’s biggest stage. Their presence signaled that every move, every save, and every mistake would be scrutinized with an intensity reserved for only the most critical moments in a player’s journey.

For Samuel Montembeault, the Canadiens’ promising goaltender, the stakes could not have been higher. The opportunity to impress the Team Canada brass—Don Sweeney, Julien Brisebois, Doug Armstrong, and others—was a dream scenario, the kind of chance that comes around only once in a career. With the Olympic selection process underway and speculation swirling about who would earn a coveted spot between the pipes, Montembeault’s performance on this particular night carried weight far beyond the final score.

Yet, as the game progressed, a subtle tension began to build. Whispers circulated among journalists and fans alike: Was Montembeault rising to the occasion, or was the pressure proving too much? In the world of elite hockey, reputations can be made or broken in a matter of minutes, and with every shot faced, the narrative shifted. Some saw flashes of brilliance, while others wondered if the moment was slipping away.

Meanwhile, the Team Canada executives watched intently, their expressions unreadable. Decisions that could shape the Olympic roster were being formed in real time, influenced by every save, every rebound, and every goal allowed. For Montembeault, the dream of representing his country on the grandest stage hung in the balance, teetering between hope and uncertainty.

As the final horn sounded and the players left the ice, questions lingered in the air. What did the Team Canada brass make of Montembeault’s performance? Was this the night that sealed his fate, for better or worse? And, perhaps most intriguingly, what does this mean for the future of Canada’s goaltending at the Olympics?

The answers, as always, are more complex than they seem. To uncover the full story—what really happened, how the executives reacted, and what comes next for Samuel Montembeault—read on.

Oct 4, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens goalie Samuel Montembeault (35) looks on as he pulls on his helmet against the Ottawa Senators during the second period at Bell Centre.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

A little earlier today, we mentioned that Team Canada executives might be at the Bell Centre for Tuesday’s game.

That’s what Sportsnet journalist Eric Engels revealed

“Don Sweeney and Julien Brisebois among Team Canada brass members expected to be at Bell Centre for Kings-Habs tonight.

That said, they’re currently in Toronto for GM meeting and it’s snowing a lot here in Montreal…”

Well, it’s now confirmed!

Sweeney and Brisebois were indeed present for the game between the Montreal Canadiens and the Los Angeles Kings, last night at the Bell Centre!

“Looks like they made it, along with Doug Armstrong ”

– Eric Engels

That means all the big Team Canada executives for the upcoming Olympic Games were at the Bell Centre for this Canadiens/Kings matchup

And no, this really isn’t good news for Samuel Montembeault.

Another tough outing for Samuel Montembeault in front of all the Team Canada executives

Pierre LeBrun and Chris Johnston talked about it in the past few hours, but Montembeault’s dream of playing in the Olympics seems to be slipping through his fingers.

It’s really unfortunate…

Sam Montembeault once again not looking great with Team Canada brass in attendance…

– Priyanta Emrith

Montembeault notably allowed one of his weakest goals of the season…

Do you think Samuel Montembeault will be selected to represent Canada at the Olympic Games?