Montreal Canadiens fans woke up to unexpected news that sent ripples through the hockey community—a move from Kent Hughes and his staff that has everyone speculating about the team’s true intentions. The acquisition of a towering 6-foot-4 goaltender has raised eyebrows, especially considering the Canadiens’ already crowded crease.

With Samuel Montembeault, Jakub Dobes, Kaapo Kahkonen, and Jacob Fowler all vying for spots between the pipes, some are wondering: what’s really going on behind the scenes? Is this just another routine signing, or is there a deeper strategy at play?

As rumors swirl and experts weigh in, one thing is clear—the timing and nature of this move suggest there’s more than meets the eye. Is it a clever insurance policy, a preemptive strike against potential roster changes, or perhaps a sign that the Canadiens are bracing for an unexpected twist during training camp?

The answers aren’t obvious, and the implications could be significant for both the NHL squad and their AHL affiliate, Laval Rocket.

In this article, we’ll dive into the hidden logic behind the signing, explore what it means for the team’s goaltending future, and reveal why this decision could become a pivotal moment for the organization.

Sep 29, 2023; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators goalie Kevin Mandolese (30) stretches after entering the game in the second period against the Winnipeg Jets at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

Many Montreal Canadiens fans were surprised to learn of the acquisition of 6-foot-4 goaltender Kevin Mandolese by Kent Hughes and his staff.

That said, I believe Mandolese can be a dominant goalie in the American Hockey League, and I also firmly believe he can lend a hand in the NHL if needed.

So why sign him?

The Habs already have Samuel Montembeault, Jakub Dobes, Kaapo Kahkonen, and Jacob Fowler in net (between the Canadiens and the Rocket).

To some, the signing seemed “unnecessary,”but not so fast!

Acquisition of goaltender Kevin Mandolese by the Montreal Canadiens: a good insurance policy according to Marco D’Amico

Incase you missed it, we mentioned the official signing in a previous article earlier today.

We really saw Mandolese as a solid insurance policy in case Kahkonen gets claimed on waivers, and that’s exactly what D’Amico confirms here.

“For those asking, I see this as a potential insurance policy should Kaapo Kahkonen not make it through waivers (assuming he is placed there during camp).

Don’t want to leave Fowler alone without support in Laval.

Still hockey to be played though.”

– Marco D’Amico, on the signing of Kevin Mandolese

Let’s not forget there will be strong competition between Kaapo Kahkonen and Jakub Dobes for the Canadiens’ backup goalie job.

If Kahkonen wins the spot, Dobes will simply be sent down to the Laval Rocket.

However, if Dobes wins the job, Kahkonen will need to be placed on NHL waivers.

If he’s claimed, that’s when the Mandolese signing becomes very interesting.