Canadiens Sign Top Prospect Cole Caufield to Entry-Level Deal

The Montreal Canadiens have secured the services of Cole Caufield, inking the promising forward to a three-year, entry-level contract. This development comes approximately 3 years and 5 months after Caufield was selected as the 15th overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft.

The contract details reveal a structured approach to Caufield's compensation. For the 2024-25 season, he will earn $700,000 at the NHL level, with the salary increasing to $832,500 for the subsequent two seasons. Additionally, the agreement includes signing bonuses and performance incentives, potentially boosting his earnings significantly.

Caufield's collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin has been nothing short of remarkable. In his sophomore year, he led the NCAA with 30 goals and topped the Big Ten conference with 52 points. These outstanding performances earned him the Big Ten Player of the Year title and a spot among the top-10 finalists for the prestigious Hobey Baker Award.

Interestingly, Caufield's journey in hockey is deeply rooted in his family. His father, Paul Caufield, is a member of the Wisconsin Hockey Hall of Fame, showcasing the strong hockey lineage that has influenced Cole's development.

Before joining the Canadiens, Caufield will report to their AHL affiliate, the Laval Rocket. However, he must first complete a mandatory seven-day quarantine and undergo 14 days of COVID-19 testing upon arrival in Canada, adhering to the health protocols in place.

Marc Bergevin, the Canadiens' general manager, expressed enthusiasm about Caufield's progress, particularly highlighting improvements in his all-around game. Bergevin noted, "His game without the puck, his commitment without the puck, took the biggest step for me."

"He's always been a goal-scorer ... those type of players where they need just that one chance and it's in the back of the net. That's always been there."

Despite his smaller stature at 5 feet 7 inches, Caufield has consistently defied expectations. He set the all-time goal-scoring record for the U.S. National Team Development Program with an impressive 126 goals in 123 games, earning him the nickname "Goal Caufield."

As of August 11, 2024, the Canadiens find themselves in a playoff position in the North Division, holding the fourth spot with 37 points. However, the team has faced recent schedule disruptions due to COVID-19 protocols, with their last game played on March 20, 2021, against Vancouver.

Caufield's addition to the Canadiens roster brings excitement and potential. His exceptional shooting ability, quick release, and improved all-around game make him a valuable asset as Montreal aims to secure their playoff position and make a deep postseason run.