Montreal Canadiens legend Carey Price paid close attention to the club's run to the Eastern Conference Final this spring and believes the group has a bright future ahead.
"It sure feels that they're a contender," Price told NHL.com's Dave Stubbs. "A lot of things need to go right for (a championship) to happen."
Price, who will be inducted to the Hockey Hall of Fame in November, ended his 15-year career after playing only five games during the 2021-22 campaign. The season prior, he carried the Habs to a surprise Stanley Cup Final berth in which he posted a .924 save percentage as the Canadiens fell to the Tampa Bay Lightning in five games. That series was the only finals appearance of Price's career.
He served as the face of the Canadiens for the majority of his tenure. Looking at the club today, Price thinks Montreal is set for the future between the pipes with its tandem of Jakub Dobes and Jacob Fowler.
"It's an exciting time in their careers," Price said. "They're both young players. I remember what it was like to be that age and find success. That's a confidence-builder, not just for the goalies but for the team. They both seem to be confident in their abilities and that's a good thing."
Dobes emerged as Montreal's No. 1 netminder during its playoff run, posting a .908 save percentage and winning a pair of Game 7s. He earned a three-year extension this offseason as a result.
Fowler produced a .908 clip in 17 appearances last season as a rookie.
