NHL: New York Islanders at Montreal Canadiens - Source: Imagn
Team Canada's recently announced roster for the upcoming Four Nations Face-Off tournament has sparked controversy. Montreal Canadiens goaltender Sam Montembeault's inclusion in the 23-member squad has led to accusations of political influence in the team's selection process.
The final roster announced on Wednesday features some of the country's 23 finest NHL players. The team, consisting of 13 forwards, seven defensemen and three goalies, was met with immediate criticism from fans and observers. Notably, Montembeault being named on the team didn't sit well with a lot of fans.
Montembeault made the squad despite his relatively lower save percentage of .906 in 20 games in comparison to other netminders like the Detroit Red Wings' Cam Talbot (SV% .915), the Washington Capitals' Logan Thompson (SV% .913) and the San Jose Sharks' Mackenzie Blackwood (SV% .907).
