Jake Allen's Fate In Montreal Confirmed

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Tyler Ball
August 30, 2023 (1:29 PM)

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The Montreal Canadiens were part of the biggest trade this offseason. They were the third team involved in the Erik Karlsson trade. As part of this, they acquired Casey DeSmith. Since this trade went down many have been wondering what the Canadiens plan is in goal.

Allen Or DeSmith?

With Samuel Montembeault considered to be the starter and the future of the Montreal Canadiens in net, the battle for the backup position has begun. Many have debated who the best option would be going forward. Now it seems as though Montreal has made their choice according to one source

"A well informed source just texted me that Allen has been told he was staying in Montreal."

Does this mean DeSmith will be traded?"

According to this source, Jake Allen has been told he will be sticking around in Montreal. This means Casey DeSmith may be finding himself a new home.

Is Allen The Right Choice?

Jake Allen has been in Montreal since being acquired from Saint Louis in 2020. In this time Allen has had an up-and-down experience. In his first season in Montreal, he was very good in the appearances he was asked to make. Since then his play has steadily declined. This past season he had a 3.55 Goals-Against-Average and a 0.891 save percentage.

Casey DeSmith had been with the Pittsburgh Penguins since 2017. During his time in Pittsburgh, he has had a Goals-Against-Average every season except one. However, DeSmith has had very few seasons where he had a workload above 30 games. This would mean the Canadiens would have to rely on Montembault to play over 50 games which has not done so far in his NHL career.

While you could make a case for either goalie to stick around it seems as though Allen will be the choice. He provides more stability and the ability to play more games if needed. He also is already familiar with everyone in the locker room.