Canadiens rule out key defenseman as Jacob Fowler gets the start in net vs Flyers
Photo credit: Philip G. Pavely-Imagn Images
We have two important announcements from the Montreal Canadiens ahead of tonight's game against the Flyers.
We mentioned the possibility earlier today, and it is now official confirmed. It is young Jacob Fowler who has been named the starting goaltender for tonight's game between the Montreal Canadiens and the Philadelphia Flyers.
It will therefore be Fowler's first career start at the Bell Centre, and it sends a strong (negative) message regarding Samuel Montembeault.
Jacob Fowler named starting goaltender by Martin St-Louis for tonight's game against Matvei Michkov and the Flyers
This is a very interesting decision.
"Head coach Martin St-Louis announces that Jacob Fowler will get the start in goal against Philadelphia."
- Montreal Canadiens
- Montreal Canadiens
Jacob Fowler, 21, is a 6-foot-2, 213-pound goaltender who was selected by the Montreal Canadiens in the third round of the 2023 NHL Draft (69th overall).
He holds a career NHL record of 1-0-1, with a 3.42 goals-against average and a .896 save percentage.
Defenseman Mike Matheson ruled out for tonight's game
Martin St-Louis has just announced that Mike Matheson will be out of the lineup for tonight's game against the Philadelphia Flyers due to an upper-body injury.
It's really unfortunate, especially with Fowler set to play his first career game at the Bell Centre.
No, it's not ideal, particularly for young goaltender Jacob Fowler, who will be making just his third NHL appearance.
Mike Matheson, 31, is a 6-foot-2, 196-pound left-shot defenseman who has recorded 16 points in 32 games this season, including four goals, while posting a +7 rating.
Most importantly, he is a very reliable defenseman who plays close to 25 minutes per game (24:54), which is absolutely remarkable.
This is certainly a significant loss for Martin St-Louis' group.
On that note, the head coach's full press conference is available just below, where he announces Matheson's injury.
More details to follow.
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DECEMBRE 16|1088 ANSWERS Canadiens rule out key defenseman as Jacob Fowler gets the start in net vs Flyers Who will win tonight's game between the Canadiens and Flyers? | ||
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