Jacob Fowler's NHL Experience Ignites Drive for AHL Return
For Laval Rocket rookie goaltender Jacob Fowler, a recent call-up to the Montreal Canadiens was more than just a professional milestone—it was a dream realized. The 21-year-old netminder described his time in the NHL as a transformative experience that has only deepened his resolve to secure a permanent spot with the iconic franchise.
"Every day I'm thinking about what I can do to get back there and help the team win," Fowler shared after a recent practice at Place Bell. "Once you get the taste of being up there ... ultimately you want to play for the Canadiens as much as you can. That's the dream."
A Promising NHL Decut
Promoted to the Canadiens on December 9 following a challenging 6-1 loss to Tampa Bay, Fowler seized his opportunity with both hands. Over ten games with Montreal, the young goaltender posted a respectable 4-4-2 record, boasting a 2.62 goals-against average and a .902 save percentage. His standout performance came on December 20 when he recorded the team's only shutout of the season, turning away 31 Pittsburgh shots.
Fowler's solid play provided Montreal with much-needed stability between the pipes, particularly during periods of inconsistency from fellow goaltenders Samuel Montembeault and Jakub Dobes. However, the rookie's inexperience eventually surfaced, with Fowler dropping four of his final five contests before being reassigned to Laval on January 16 after allowing four goals on 26 shots against Buffalo.
Return to Laval with Renewed Purpose
Since returning to the AHL, Fowler has demonstrated why he remains a promising prospect in the Canadiens' system. Through six games with the Rocket, he has secured four victories while maintaining a 2.25 goals-against average and a .915 save percentage. The young netminder has already recorded three shutouts this season, showcasing the consistency that caught Montreal's attention.
"It's kind of bittersweet," Fowler admitted regarding his NHL stint. "You get that little taste, and now all you want is more. Just try to be where your feet are every day because things can change quick—as we've seen."
Navigating Organizational Changes
Fowler's development continues amidst organizational shifts within the Canadiens' goaltending structure. The recent promotion of goalie coach Marco Marciano to Montreal following Éric Raymond's departure has created adjustments for the Rocket's netminders. Despite these changes, Marciano maintains regular contact with Fowler and watches Laval's games whenever possible.
Rocket head coach Pascal Vincent acknowledged the temporary challenge but expressed confidence in his goaltender's adaptability. "I don't think in the short term the goalies will forget how to play," Vincent noted. "But we don't want to waste any time, either."
Coach's Confidence and Future Outlook
Vincent has been particularly impressed with Fowler's attitude since his return from Montreal. The coach highlighted the goaltender's strong work ethic, coachability, and positive team presence as key attributes that bode well for his future development.
"Of course, those moments spent in the NHL are always helpful," Vincent observed. "He's humble, fun to be around, has great energy and is talented. He's going to have a good future. I haven't seen anything different in his behaviour. He looks confident."
With the Canadiens facing a three-week break during the upcoming Winter Olympics, Fowler is expected to receive substantial playing time with Laval. This extended opportunity could prove crucial for his development as he works toward another NHL call-up.
Fowler's immediate focus remains on contributing to the Rocket's success, starting with Wednesday's home game against Utica as Laval begins a five-game homestand. Yet his ultimate ambition continues to burn brightly—a return to the Montreal Canadiens crease where he first tasted NHL action.
"The biggest thing, no matter where you are, you've got to play your best and do the right things," Fowler emphasized. "No matter where you are, if you're not improving every day, there's somebody else coming, either in front of you or behind you."
