Cole Caufield pays tribute to Johnny Gaudreau by changing his number from 22 to 13, the number Gaudreau wore for most of his career.
Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were tragically killed in a crash on August 30. The brothers were struck by a vehicle while riding their bikes. The news rocked the hockey community, including Cole Caufield.
“Nothing can fill the void in the hearts of their families and loved ones, but I hope that [mon changement de numéro] “It will bring some comfort to know how much these two have positively impacted the lives of so many. They will truly be missed,” Cole Caufield posted on Instagram.
Caufield and Gaudreau both played for Team USA at the last World Hockey Championship in the Czech Republic. It was the first time the two wingers were on the same team. Little did anyone know it would be the last.
“Playing with your hero is something most people dream of,” wrote Cole Caufield. “I was lucky enough to be Johnny’s teammate last summer and it didn’t take long to realize what a great person he is.”
“He was the most welcoming, genuine, funniest guy I’ve ever met,” he praises. “He was someone everyone gravitated toward and I took every opportunity I could to be with him. Not only was he an amazing hockey player and teammate, but he was down to earth and truly cared about every single person he met.”
PHOTO SAM NAVARRO, USA TODAY SPORTS ARCHIVES, PROVIDED BY REUTERS
Johnny Gaudreau
Since arriving in Montreal in 2020, Cole Caufield has worn number 22. This number was assigned to him by the organization. When he played for the United States at the World Junior Under-20 or Under-18 Championships, he wore number 13.
The last few years as number 22 have been some of the best years of my life. It truly is a dream come true and I will forever hold those memories and that number close to me. I wore number 13 at one point in my career because of Johnny and now I will wear it again to honor him.
Cole Caufield
At 5-foot-9, Johnny Gaudreau silenced his critics, paving the way for smaller players. He inspired Cole Caufield, who is an inch shorter than him.
“He paved the way for smaller players and proved that we had a future in this sport at the highest level. I will always be grateful to him for inspiring me and others.”
Johnny Gaudreau wore number 53 when he made his NHL debut with the Calgary Flames. He quickly changed to number 13.
For the Canadiens, Caufield becomes the ninth player to wear this number, the last being Mitchell Stephens. Cedric Paquette, Alexander Semin, Mitchell Stephens, Alex Tanguay: several players who have worn it have had short careers in Montreal. Mike Cammalleri played 170 games with the 13 on his back, a Habs record.
With seven years left on his contract, Cole Caufield should easily beat that mark.