Jake Allen is an outstanding teammate, a mentor to the young goalies in the organization. But while he is willing to give advice to his teammates and put the Canadian logo above his own interests, he is aware that there is only one net per team that can be defended in each game. The more the task falls to him, the happier he will be.
“Sam (Samuel Montembeault), he’s a good goalkeeper. It has proven itself. But I want to play more games than last year,” said the 33-year-old masked man at the end of his first day of training camp.
Last season, Montembeault and Allen shared the job almost equally. The New Brunswicker made 41 starts compared to 39 for the pride of Bécancour. Allen has had some problems this season, which has seen him sidelined at times due to injury. He recorded the worst statistics of his career with a save percentage of .891 and a goals-against average of 3.55.
In his defense, it’s important to remember that Allen’s 2021-2022 season ended on April 9 after suffering a groin injury. An injury that he had to treat during the following offseason.
“This time I had a whole summer to train, which I didn’t have the opportunity to do last year,” said the goalkeeper. I feel fresh and excited. Especially since there is a lot of optimism in the locker room. »
Evidence that bears repeating
Photo Martin Chevalier
However, Allen is now 33 years old. The age at which the decline of the goalkeeper’s career actually began, according to a text published on September 7th.
Conversely, the 26-year-old Montembeault took advantage of Allen’s difficulties and absence to gain experience and confidence. So much so that we can wonder if he is currently sitting in the number one goalkeeper spot, to use a phrase close to Martin St-Louis’ heart. A hypothesis that Allen is fully aware of, but one that will not change the way he attacks training camp.
“At the beginning of my career, someone told me that you have to constantly prove that you belong in this league. It’s a philosophy I’ve used since my first camp since I was 18 years old. I never take anything for granted and want to improve every day. »
“It’s up to me to take back that position (of number one),” he added. But at the same time, the well-being of the group is important. I want to help this team. Sam and I will be successful together. »
Primeau’s chest
Photo Martin Chevalier
Meanwhile, Cayden Primeau will be hoping for a solid season in the American League. In Laval or within another organization (should he be called upon for waivers). After a start that seemed promising in his first appearances with the Canadian, things went downhill for the young American.
“Patience is key,” Allen said of Primeau. We must forget the past and look forward. »
However, time is soon running out for the Habs’ 2017 seventh-round pick at 24 years old.
“I love Cayden. I get on very well with him. He has all the tools. »
But a trunk filled to the brim is of no use if you don’t know how to get the tools out in time.
“Opportunities are hard to find, so you have to take them when they come,” Allen said. I know several people who never played in the NHL but could have. Some never got their chance, others were unable to take advantage of the opportunities given to them. »
And there comes a time when the organization, seeing it slipping away, gives someone else the chance.