Notre Dame defenseman Chase Blackmun (5) scores shootout goal on Ohio State goaltender Jakub Dobeš (44) during the Ohio State-Notre Dame NCAA hockey game on Saturday, February 11, 2023, at Compton Family Ice Arena in South Bend, Indiana. Ohio State Vs Notre Dame

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Montreal Canadiens Call Up Jakub Dobes for Anticipated NHL Debut

Montreal Canadiens recall goaltender Jakub Dobes, setting the stage for his much-awaited NHL debut.

The Montreal Canadiens have called up goaltender Jakub Dobes from AHL Laval for his first NHL game. The Habs’ current NHL duo of Sam Montembeault and Cayden Primeau remain uninjured, but the team is taking advantage of a vacant roster spot to carry three goalies for their back-to-back games in Florida this weekend.

Dobes, 23, was selected 136th overall in the fifth round of the 2020 draft by Montreal. After a standout season in the United States Hockey League following the draft, he excelled at Ohio State University, achieving a .926 save percentage over 75 games in two seasons. Dobes transitioned successfully to professional hockey, becoming Laval’s starting goalie last season. In 51 AHL games, he posted a 2.93 GAA, .906 save percentage, and one shutout.

Les Canadiens ont rappelé le gardien Jakub Dobes du Rocket de Laval.

The Canadiens have recalled goaltender Jakub Dobes from the Laval Rocket.#GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/hwAGDXiK46
— Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) December 27, 2024

This season, despite dealing with injuries, Dobes has played 14 AHL games, recording a 2.44 GAA and a .910 save percentage with a 9-3-1 record. He has split playing time with veteran Connor Hughes, slightly outperforming the 28-year-old Swiss goalie statistically.

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Dobes’ consistent development and ability to adapt at each level suggest a promising NHL debut. However, this recall isn’t just about showcasing Dobes. It also highlights concerns over Primeau’s performance this season. The 25-year-old has struggled as a backup, posting a .836 save percentage, a 4.70 GAA, and a -16.0 GSAA in seven starts and four relief appearances, resulting in a 2-3-1 record.

The Canadiens’ decision to bring in Dobes reflects both confidence in the young goalie’s potential and a need to address backup struggles as they prepare for their upcoming games.

Image Credit John Mersits / USA TODAY NETWORK

Jakub Dobes

Montreal Canadiens

NHL

Anamika Shrivastava

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