In the world of hockey, the discussion about Canada’s goaltending options is always a hot topic. However, according to Doug Armstrong, the general manager of both the St. Louis Blues and Team Canada, the days of having a generational goalie are long gone. In an interview with TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun for The Athletic, Armstrong explained his views on the current state of NHL goaltending.
“I understand why it’s a topic,” Armstrong said. “But my view of [NHL] goaltending is that the floor is closer to the ceiling now and closer than ever before. That’s why you don’t see a generational goalie that’s at the top of the league like [Martin] Brodeur was, or [Eddie] Belfour, or Patrick [Roy] or [Dominik] Hasek for a decade, you see players come in and go out every couple of years. That’s just because I think the floor is so high.”
As Canada prepares for the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off and the 2026 Winter Olympics, Armstrong is keeping a close eye on his goaltending options. With a roster that already includes stars like Connor McDavid, Sidney Crosby, Brayden Point, Nathan MacKinnon, and more, the decision on the goaltenders is one that cannot be taken lightly.
“Whoever is playing the best closer to that tournament will probably get the nod,” Armstrong said of the selection process for the goaltenders.
Among the candidates up for consideration are Adin Hill of the Vegas Golden Knights, Stuart Skinner of the Edmonton Oilers, Jordan Binnington of the St. Louis Blues, and Samuel Montembeault of the Montreal Canadiens. As the deadline for naming the goaltenders approaches, Armstrong will have to make some tough decisions.
The anticipation for the 4 Nations Face-Off is growing as the tournament is set to begin on Feb. 12. Canada has already named its first six players, but the goaltending situation remains up in the air. Fans will have to wait and see which netminders will rise to the occasion and earn a spot on the team.
The road to the 2026 Olympics in Italy is just beginning, and Canada will look to build a powerhouse team that can compete for gold. With Armstrong at the helm, the future looks bright for Team Canada, even if they don’t have a generational goaltender leading the way.
