The right shoulder surgery that will keep Cole Caufield out for the rest of the season is the best long-term choice, the 22-year-old American said in a press briefing on Friday morning.
The young Montreal Canadiens winger said he had felt shoulder pain a few times in the past few months.
Earlier this summer, it was mostly muscle fatigue. However, in late December and early January, Caufield suffered more serious damage, especially against the Dallas Stars and against the Nashville Predators.
“It was nothing serious,” said the forward of his nasty fall during the game against the Stars last December. The second time, against the Predators, it was more painful. »
Caufield had a great season with 26 goals and 10 assists in 46 games. He will also be a free agent this summer. These two elements must therefore have weighed in the balance of the player’s decision to proceed, or not, to an operation.
“I didn’t want to stop playing,” Caufield said. I had tests to be sure what was best for me, but in the end, not having the operation could lead to worse. I came to the conclusion that this was ideal in the long term. »
Canadian striker Josh Anderson has already gone through a similar operation, which helped Caufield imagine the possible recovery after his surgery.
“Everyone is different,” Caufield said. I’m younger so hopefully my body will heal faster. The goal is to be able to take advantage of the moment to return to 100% next season. »
Caufield said his shoulder injury didn’t really bother him when he was taking shots on net.
“It’s a funny pain, in some places, said the attacker. It was really when I fell on the ice rink. It’s also confusing for me honestly. I feel good, but my shoulder, no. »
Caufield will be operated on Wednesday, confirmed the vice-president of communications of the Canadian, Chantal Macchabée.
In addition, the Habs indicated on Twitter that Nick Suzuki, Kirby Dach and Christian Dvorak were not at training on Friday, in connection with treatment.
Defender Joel Edmunson is a day-to-day case with an upper body injury.
The Sainte-Flanelle will play again Saturday night in Ottawa.