Caufield’s Absence
Cole Caufield is not in the lineup for the Montreal Canadiens’ game against the Ottawa Senators on March 11, 2026, due to illness. This marks a significant absence for the Canadiens, as Caufield has been a key player this season, scoring 37 goals in 63 games.
Alexandre Texier will replace Caufield in the lineup, stepping into a crucial role as the Canadiens face off against a division rival. Texier has contributed 2 points in his last seven games, providing some depth to the team during this challenging time.
Season Performance
This season, Caufield has been on a scoring streak, netting 37 goals, just one shy of his career high of 38 goals from last season. His performance has been pivotal for the Canadiens, as he has tallied 155 goals and 283 points in 350 career games.
In the previous game against the Toronto Maple Leafs, Caufield managed only 10:27 of playing time and sat for most of the third period, raising concerns about his health. He was listed as a game-time decision for the contest against the Senators.
Coaching Insights
Head coach St. Louis confirmed that “Caufield will still make the trip to Ottawa,” indicating that the team is hopeful for a swift recovery. However, the coach acknowledged that “his absence will be a heavy blow as Montreal steps up to an Atlantic Division matchup.”
As the Canadiens prepare for the game, they will also rely on rookie goaltender Jacob Fowler, who has been called up after Sam Montembeault was scratched. This adds another layer of challenge for the team as they navigate the absence of one of their top scorers.
Looking Ahead
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the duration of Caufield’s illness and whether he will be available for upcoming games. The Canadiens will need to adapt quickly as they face the Senators, aiming to maintain their competitive edge in the division.