As the NHL offseason unfolds, blockbuster contracts and eye-popping signings have become the talk of the hockey world. Fans and analysts alike are left buzzing over the latest deals, each one seemingly bigger than the last.

But amid the noise and headlines, an intriguing story is quietly developing—one that could have major implications for the Montreal Canadiens and their future between the pipes.

When a young goaltender recently inked a lucrative new contract, it sent shockwaves through front offices across the league. The numbers are staggering, and the message is clear: elite goaltending comes at a premium price, and teams are willing to pay for potential as much as performance. Yet, while other franchises are opening their wallets wide, the Canadiens appear to be playing a very different game.

Behind closed doors at the Bell Centre, a crucial decision is looming. The stakes are high, and the outcome could shape the team’s trajectory for years to come.

What makes Montreal’s situation so unique? And why are some insiders calling their current approach one of the biggest bargains in the NHL? The answer, as you’ll soon discover, lies in a comparison that few saw coming.

Photo credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Spencer Knight’s new contract highlights what a bargain Samuel Montembeault still is for the Montreal Canadiens.

In recent months in the NHL, goaltenders have been receiving massive contracts. And the new deal signed by Spencer Knight with the Chicago Blackhawks is yet another proof of that.

At 24 years old, he just signed a deal that will pay him over $5.8 million per season, an amount that shows how well goalies are paid these days.

Knight split last season between the Florida Panthers and Chicago. He finished with a 17-16-3 record, a 2.72 goals-against average, and a .902 save percentage.

Those aren’t perfect numbers, but the Blackhawks believe in his potential. They paid a high price to acquire him, and they want to keep him for the long term.

Samuel Montembeault Remains a Bargain for the Montreal Canadiens

Meanwhile, in Montreal, Samuel Montembeault is earning only $3.15 million per year. He’s under contract until 2027 and represents one of the best bargains in the league.

When you compare him to Knight, or to other starting goalies signing for $5 to $6 million, you realize just how good of a deal the Habs have.

Indeed, Montembeault has established himself as the team’s number one. He had a strong season and proved he can handle the role long term. But as time goes on, his contract increasingly looks too small compared to his true value.

In my opinion, the Canadiens will soon have a big decision to make. Next summer, Montembeault will be eligible to discuss an extension. With another good season, he will have strong arguments to demand a significant raise.

The Habs will then have to choose: invest to keep Montembeault, or place their trust in young goalies like Jakub Dobes and Jacob Fowler.

One thing is certain, Spencer Knight’s contract just served as a reminder of a reality – goalies are very expensive, and sooner or later, this will affect Montreal too.