In discussions with fans at McLean’s Pub on Tuesday regarding Caufield’s scoring drought, most had a positive outlook, dismissing concerns. Credit must be given to the Canadiens’ PR department for creating such an optimistic atmosphere. However, the reality is that Caufield’s performance this season is concerning. Last season, he managed 26 goals in 46 games before a shoulder injury ended his campaign, putting him on pace for 46 goals.

The narrative was that Martin St. Louis was the ideal coach for Caufield, given their similarities as diminutive forwards with scoring prowess. Under previous head coach Dominique Ducharme, Caufield struggled, notably being benched for the first two games of the 2021 playoffs. In 30 games under Ducharme the following season, Caufield scored only one goal. However, he flourished under St. Louis, scoring 22 goals in the last 37 games of the season. Prior to this season, Caufield had scored 48 goals in 83 games under St. Louis’ guidance.

Although Caufield scored against the Florida Panthers on Tuesday with a well-executed wraparound, it was his first goal since March 16 and only his second in the last 20 games. Since the all-star break in early February, Caufield has scored just four goals in the team’s 25 games.