Caufield changes number to 13 to honor Gaudreau after tragedy
- Cole Caufield will change his jersey number from 22 to 13 this season to honor Johnny Gaudreau, who was killed in a traffic crash.
- Caufield looked up to Gaudreau as a role model for smaller players in the NHL and previously wore No. 13 during his under-18 team career.
- The change symbolizes Caufield's gratitude and respect for Gaudreau's influence on his life and career.
Montreal Canadiens forward Cole Caufield announced he will change his jersey number from 22 to 13 this season to honor Johnny Gaudreau, who tragically died in a traffic accident alongside his brother Matthew while biking in New Jersey. The incident occurred last Thursday, deeply affecting the hockey community. Caufield, who admired Gaudreau as a role model for smaller players in the NHL, previously wore No. 13 during his time with the U.S. National Team Development Program, inspired by Gaudreau's success. In an emotional Instagram post, Caufield expressed his gratitude for Gaudreau's influence on his career and highlighted the late player's welcoming and genuine nature. Caufield's NHL debut in April 2021 included a faceoff against Gaudreau, and they later became teammates on Team USA at the IIHF men’s world championships. This personal connection made the tragedy even more poignant for Caufield, who emphasized the impact Gaudreau had on him and many others in the sport. The decision to wear No. 13 is a tribute to Gaudreau's legacy and a reminder of the potential for smaller players to excel in hockey, reinforcing the importance of inspiration and mentorship in the sport.