Montreal Canadiens Make Coaching Change, Dismiss Goaltending Coach Eric Raymond
In a significant mid-season move, the Montreal Canadiens have parted ways with goaltending coach Eric Raymond. The decision was announced on Wednesday morning by Jeff Gorton, the team's president of hockey operations, signaling a shake-up in the coaching staff as the NHL season progresses.
Marco Marciano Steps In as Interim Goalie Coach
The Canadiens have appointed Marco Marciano, 43, as the interim goaltending coach for the remainder of the season. Marciano brings a wealth of experience within the organization, having joined the Canadiens' system in 2013. Initially hired as a video coach for the Hamilton Bulldogs, which served as the Habs' primary American Hockey League affiliate at the time, he later transitioned to the Laval Rocket in 2017, where he served as both goalie and video coach.
This appointment comes at a critical juncture, with the team looking to stabilize its goaltending department and improve performance on the ice.
Inconsistent Goaltending Performance Prompts Change
The decision to fire Eric Raymond follows a period of inconsistent play from the Canadiens' goalies this season. Samuel Montembeault, in particular, has faced challenges, posting a 1-2-1 record in his last four starts. Overall, Montembeault holds a 9-8-2 record with a 3.46 goals-against average and an .868 save percentage, numbers that have likely contributed to the coaching change.
Other goalies in the mix include Jakub Dobes, who recently shone in a 3-2 overtime victory against the Vegas Golden Knights, stopping 32 of 34 shots. Dobes has improved to a 16-5-3 record this season, with a 2.96 GAA and an .890 save percentage. Jacob Fowler, who was returned to the Laval Rocket on January 16, posted a 4-4-2 record with a 2.62 GAA and a .902 save percentage during his stint.
The Canadiens' management is clearly seeking a fresh approach to address these performance issues and bolster the team's defensive efforts as they push forward in the season.
Organizational Impact and Future Outlook
This coaching change underscores the Canadiens' commitment to refining their strategies and enhancing team dynamics. With Marciano's interim role, the organization aims to leverage his familiarity with the players and systems to foster improvement. The move also highlights the ongoing adjustments teams make in response to on-ice results, emphasizing the high stakes in professional hockey.
As the season continues, all eyes will be on how this transition affects the Canadiens' goaltending corps and whether it leads to more consistent performances in the net.
