Cole Caufield Dedicates First Goal to Johnny Gaudreau in Emotional Moment

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Liam McCormick
October 9, 2024 (7:23 PM)

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Canadiens forward Cole Caufield was deeply stricken by the loss of his friend Johnny Gaudreau this offseason, and early on got a chance to pay him a tribute.

Caufield scored the first goal of the Habs season with a quick one-timer from the slot. While skating to the bench, Caufield tapped his chest and pointed to the sky, a tribute to his late friend Gaudreau.

It must have been an incredibly emotional moment for Caufield, who was wearing the number 13 for the first time in his NHL career as a tribute to Gaudreau. The two befriended each other playing for team USA, and Caufield deeply felt the loss of his friend and idol growing up. Caufield had even worn number 13 earlier in his career while looking up to Johnny Hockey as a small, skilled player. Caufield changing his number after Gaudreau's passing is a classic and emotional tribute.

As you likely know, Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Gaudreau were tragically struck by a drunk driver in late August. The hockey world has come together in mourning the sudden and shocking loss, and the NHL will continue to pay tributes to the Gaudreau brothers through the season. At the beginning of the year, each team will wear a commemorative helmet patch for the brothers.

It's always emotional to see an athlete have success after such a close personal tragedy - it always feels like there's more at work than just sports. This was an incredible moment for Caufield and the Habs, an emotional scene that they can use for momentum through the upcoming season. With their young core now matured a few years, they should be beginning to push for the playoffs.