Canadiens Caufield Can Do More Than Rely on Suzuki

There's plenty to like about what Cole Caufield is doing in Montreal right now. He's scoring goals, finding open space, and becoming a reliable offensive threat for the Canadiens. None of that is particularly surprising. We've known for a while that Caufield can put the puck in the net. But his latest performance against Dallas offered another reason to appreciate what he's becoming.

Caufield scored twice in Montreal's 5-2 win, bringing his season totals to eight goals and 12 points in 13 games. He's already recorded three multi-goal games this season, and he's collected 10 points in his last eight appearances. Those are impressive numbers for any young forward. What's interesting is that he's producing without his usual centre, Nick Suzuki, who is currently sidelined with an upper-body injury.

Caufield Is Finding Ways to Produce Without Suzuki.

It's easy to understand why Caufield and Suzuki work so well together. Good scorers need players who can get them the puck, recognize openings, and create opportunities. Their chemistry is an important part of Montreal's offence. But a productive player also needs to show that he can adjust when the familiar circumstances change.

That's what makes Caufield's recent stretch worth watching. He's not simply waiting for Suzuki to return before getting back to work. He's continuing to find ways to score and contribute while the Canadiens manage without their captain. That doesn't mean Caufield is better off without Suzuki. It means he's showing that his offensive value isn't entirely dependent on one linemate.

The Canadiens Need This Version of Caufield.

Montreal is still building, and a young team needs players who can provide some offensive certainty. Caufield looks like someone the Canadiens can count on in that respect. There will be stretches when the goals don't come as easily. That's part of the game, and 13 appearances are still a relatively small sample. But his recent production suggests that he's developing into more than a player who finishes chances created by others.

Suzuki's return should help both players. In the meantime, Caufield is giving Montreal something valuable: a scorer who can keep finding the net even when the lineup isn't quite what it should be. That's a pretty good development for the Canadiens.