Incredible Development for Cole Caufield: He Isn't the Same Player He Used to Be
Photo credit: Daily Faceoff
Martin St-Louis, head coach of the Montreal Canadiens, has repeatedly emphasized that he can't make Cole Caufield a better scorer, but he can contribute to his development as a complete player.
Despite constant criticism of the young CH forward's defensive aspect, revealing statistics about his on-ice goals-against contribution show an impressive record for Caufield.
According to data reported by Grant McCagg, the defensive performance of number 22 is quite remarkable, with only 1.76 goals allowed per 60 minutes of ice time.
To put this in perspective, let's consider Patrice Bergeron, multiple-time Selke Trophy winner for the NHL's best defensive forward. During the Boston Bruins' exceptional 2022-2023 season, Bergeron had a ratio of 1.73 goals conceded per 60 minutes.
"Caufield has been on the ice for only 1.76 goals allowed per 60 minutes. To put this in perspective, the reigning Selke Trophy winner, Patrice Bergeron, was on the ice for 1.73 goals per 60 minutes during Boston's record-breaking 2022-23 season. His defensive game is underrated." - Grant McCagg
That season, Boston set a record with only 12 regular-time losses in 82 games, while the Canadiens had already recorded 13 losses after 33 games. Comparatively, this highlights the underrated value of Caufield's performances.
Although an increase in his goal-scoring is desired, the 22-year-old American significantly contributes offensively, with 24 points in 33 games, a pace of 60 points over a full season.
Currently, the decline in his goal-scoring does not raise major concerns. He is one of the league's forwards who has experienced notable bad luck this season. Furthermore, despite the Canadiens' overall performance, the efficiency of their power play remains relatively low.
Considering a complete lineup, with a true quarterback like Lane Hutson to lead this aspect of the game, I believe this will positively impact Caufield.
Meanwhile, his development in defensive play seems promising for his future with the Montreal team.
| POLL |
23 DECEMBRE | 630 ANSWERS Incredible Development for Cole Caufield: He Isn't the Same Player He Used to Be Do you think Cole Caufield will ever score 50 goals? |
| Yes | 413 | 65.6 % |
| No | 217 | 34.4 % |
| LIST OF POLLS |
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