The Montreal Canadiens saw their momentum stall in a 3-0 loss to the New Jersey Devils on Sunday, but the spotlight stayed on Cole Caufield and his chase for 50 goals. Entering the NHL game with 49, Caufield failed to score despite three shots, extending the wait for a historic milestone.
Head coach Martin St. Louis admitted the pursuit may be affecting the team’s flow. The team had 18 shots in the game but couldn’t score a single goal. Speaking about which, St. Louis said players are searching too much for Caufield, which is hurting the continuity of plays.
“You can see that the guys are searching a lot (for Cole Caufield),” Caufield said. “I think it’s affecting the continuity of certain plays. I have a lot of confidence that he’ll score 50 goals. We would’ve loved that tonight for many reasons, so we can move to other things and give that moment to the fans. It would’ve been fun to give them that tonight.”
MORE: Montreal Canadiens get major vote of confidence in Stanley Cup race
The coach is confident that Caufield will reach 50 goals, and indeed, if it happens fast, they will focus on their next task, which will be continuing to fix loopholes, if any, before the playoffs.
Caufield’s season still ranks among the league’s best. He has 49 goals and 85 points in 76 games, leading Montreal’s attack. His goals have carried extra weight, including league-leading totals in go-ahead and game-winning goals. He also remains in the race for the Maurice ‘Rocket’ Richard Trophy.
MORE: NHL analyst clears the air on Maple Leafs’ Auston Matthews trade rumors
The milestone carries deep meaning in Montreal. No Canadiens player has reached 50 goals since 1990, when Stephane Richer achieved the feat. Caufield now has five games left to end that long wait and join an elite group in franchise history.
Nick Suzuki spoke about the Habs’ approach towards Cole Caufield’s 50-goal milestone
Captain Nick Suzuki also talked about Caufield’s milestone and offered a calmer view. He said the team is not forcing plays and continues to trust Caufield’s instincts.
“I don’t think so. I mean, he’s finding good spots,” Suzuki said. “We always try to look for him, he’s a great goalscorer. He hit a lot of chances tonight, [but] it just didn’t go in. I don’t think anyone is trying to force anything to happen. I think we just gotta continue to play and it’ll happen for him.”
Despite the loss, Montreal has already secured a playoff spot with a strong 45-22-10 record. The team sits in a tight Atlantic Division race, pushing for home-ice advantage.
As the postseason nears, the Canadiens must balance history and team play. Caufield’s 50th goal remains close, but maintaining structure may matter more with the playoffs near.
