Trade completed between the Montreal Canadiens and the Pittsburgh Penguins: Habs' goalie Jake Allen brings forth a new solution

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David St-Jean
August 20, 2023 (7:26 PM)

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Many raised eyebrows when they saw that the Canadiens had acquired another goaltender, Casey DeSmith, in the mega trade that ultimately sent Erik Karlsson to the Pittsburgh Penguins. In a recent press briefing, Kent Hughes stated that he has a plan in mind and even reassured the newcomer that he won't end up in the AHL.

"I said to Casey, 'Listen, be patient, the idea is not to bury you in the American League.' We'll continue to look at the chances we have to possibly trade him or change things, but it takes patience with the goalie market because it doesn't move that quickly." - Kent Hughes

Adding to this, the call that the GM made to Samuel Montembeault's agent after the transaction aimed at reassuring him might give us some insight into the club's goaltending plans. But one of those who might be in danger in front of the net for the Canadiens, Jake Allen, has introduced a sensible new theory.

In an interview with Marc Antoine Godin for Radio-Canada, the 33-year-old goalie commented on the situation. He even suggested that the Canadiens might opt for a three-goaltender rotation to start the season.

"There are only 23 players on a roster. It will be up to them to decide if they want to waste a spot on an extra goaltender or not. But I think in the future, there will be more and more goaltenders who play during the season, not just two. It's the very nature of the position."

"The game is so fast. Injuries are becoming more frequent because young players are playing hockey more and more often. The body accumulates mileage at a younger age. I think in the future, we will see three or four goalies being used very regularly throughout the year." - Jake Allen

This isn't a crazy idea, especially if we consider the trend of recent years. As Godin points out in his article, 107 goaltenders were used in the NHL last season. That's much more than the seasons before the pandemic, where around 95 goaltenders were used. Prior to the 2012 lockout, the average was below 90.

Even though Allen might see less time in the net this season, he, who has seen it all in his career, doesn't seem afraid of this sudden competition. He knows the battle will be intense, and he seems ready to jump into the game.

"I've never been in such a situation before, but at the same time, it will be a fun competition, and I'm looking forward to being a part of it." - Jake Allen

Contrary to what many think, Kent Hughes still has plenty of time to sort out the situation in front of the net. As seen, he has interesting options to keep his goaltenders and maximize their value. It's certain that a goaltender will get injured in the league sooner or later, and Hughes will be ready to make the price steep for any GM wanting to replace their injured player.