Samuel Montembeault played like a number one goalie in the Canadiens’ opening game and showed impressive poise under the circumstances.

What circumstances? The stress that controlled him. Maybe it wasn’t like the first series Lance and Countwhere Quebec National goalkeeper Gary Bennett would vomit before games, but it bothered him.

“I was very nervous, but I had three shots right at the start and that helped me hold back and get into the game.

“I wanted to put in a good performance, there was a big audience. I converted my nervousness into energy.”

With a 48-save performance, he can say his mission is accomplished. According to colleagues at TVA Sports, this is the first time since Ken Dryden in 1975 that the Canadian has eliminated his opponent in an opening game at home. So Montembeault is in good company.

Solid and quiet

When you juxtapose Montembeault’s comments with those of his teammates, you immediately think of the duck, looking relaxed on the surface and constantly pedaling underwater.

“Sam was solid and calm, it seemed like everything was holding on to him. We know what kind of goalie he can be and he showed it tonight,” said Nick Suzuki.

“Monty played very well. I’m sure it’s one of the best games of his career. He was always there for us when we needed him,” said Mike Matheson, who hit the mark.

“It was probably my best game, I felt great. Already this morning my state of mind was good and I was looking forward to the game,” confirmed Montembeault, who admitted that he was watching the number of shots on the scoreboard increase.

Not bad, good

The Canadian played a very good first third and the Maple Leafs then conquered more space, but the team didn’t let themselves be defeated.

“Was it our best game? No, but it was a very good game considering they were watching the game,” said Martin St-Louis.

Mike Matheson agrees, but emphasizes that the team cannot rely solely on their goalkeepers.

“It’s an exciting win to start the season. It’s a very good team effort, but of course there are certain aspects that we need to improve so that Monty doesn’t have to make so many big saves.

Charged

The pre-match presentation introduced by Luc Picard, who then narrated a video highlighting moments in the club’s history, was effective, as was the orchestra present for the players’ on-ice presentation.

“I don’t think I’ve ever been so excited about an opening game. The boys were full of energy and you could see that in the first third,” said Nick Suzuki.

Martin St-Louis saw the impact this presentation had on his players.

“It’s a very nice opening ceremony, everything was there. With the encouragement, the players feel that.”

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