Gary Bettman Set To Fine Montreal Canadiens Rookie Jakub Dobes After Incredible NHL Debut

The Montreal Canadiens made a huge move over the holiday break, with the team confirming that they would turn to 23-year-old Jakub Dobes in favor of Cayden Primeau, who was officially placed on waivers on Saturday.

The former fifth-round pick Dobes officially made his debut against the Florida Panthers, and after 34 saves, he picked up the first win of his career in shocking fashion with a 4-0 shutout.

Facing 34 shots from the defending Stanley Cup Champions isn't an easy way to start an NHL career, but with plenty of calm and the talent that's seen him thrive in the NHL, Dobes looked fantastic for Montreal.

With the likes of Lane Hutson, Cole Caufield, and Juraj Slafkovsky all thriving in 2024/25, the team may have now found themselves a star in net, and if Dobes can play well throughout the year, they may be nearing the end of their lengthy rebuild.

However, after the good times of a win on debut, Dobes now faces a fine from Gary Bettman and the NHL, as he took part in the tradition that rookies on debut take their lap without a bucket.

Despite the NHL advertising this, Bettman continues to fine players for partaking, with a $2,500 fine reportedly coming Dobes' way after what may be one of the best moments of his life.

In good news, it's often veteran players that cover the fine for rookies if they partake in this tradition, and while it's a ridiculous one that should go away, it doesn't appear to be going anywhere, so hopefully this doesn't take away from an incredible debut for the 23-year old.