ANAHEIM | Cole Caufield had a plan in mind when he left the Honda Center, home of the Ducks. He planned to reunite with Trevor Zegras, his longtime friend and former U.S. U18 national team teammate.
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One of the NHL’s most electric young forwards, Zegras is no shadow of his former self heading into the season.
In the midst of a contract dispute that forced him to avoid the vast majority of the camp, Zegras never found his rhythm again after signing a three-year, $17.25 million (average of $5.75 million) pact. He had just two points (1 goal, 1 assist) in 12 games before landing on the injured list due to lower body ailments.
“When I meet Trevor, I’ll talk about my NFL pool, but also hockey,” Caufield said in the opposing team’s locker room in Anaheim. I need a few wins in my football pool, but I’m in a better position than last year. »
There is more to life than just hockey. Stéphane Richer has already said it.
A small goal at five against five
But like the Ducks’ No. 11 pick, Caufield needs to change his mind.
Playing a five-on-five system, Caufield has scored just one goal in 18 games this season. Last year he finished at the top with the CH, although he only took part in 46 games, with 17 goals at five-on-five.
When we talk to him about these statistics, the American quickly looks in a different direction.
“I also scored goals (3) that gave our team victory,” he replied. At five-on-five I also have assists (4). I’m not too worried. I don’t look too much at the numbers. I think more about my all-round game and helping the team. »
Martin St-Louis has given himself a mission with Caufield. He wants to help him become a more complete winger and not just a goalscorer.
Last week, after a practice in Brossard, St-Louis emphasized that Caufield has always scored goals since his hockey career, but he hasn’t always received the lessons necessary to act like a complete player.
“Yes (I’m willing to sacrifice some offense”), replied number 22. I often talk to Marty about this individually. He teaches me to play more energetically on defense and to finish plays. I feel an improvement in my overall game, but there are always ways to give more. »
“When I find ways to shoot, I feel like I’m at my best,” he continued. I need to continue to focus on this aspect and less on production. I know it will come back. »
Caufield, who has 15 points (5 goals, 10 assists) in 18 games, leads the team with 68 shots.
Gallagher to the right of Suzuki
In Anaheim, St. Louis, there was another rigorous approach that involved proactive control, attention to detail, and attention to improper releases.
“I don’t know if the players enjoy working on details, but it’s still very important,” noted the head coach. It’s not pretty, but you have to do it as if you were in love. »
“Since I’ve been here, I’ve never had a problem recognizing the intensity of our training,” he continued. We rely on a good team and the boys want to work. We just have to maintain our standards. Recently there was a fall. It’s my job to put this back together. »
On the eve of the game against the Ducks, CH changed his trios slightly. Brendan Gallagher was promoted to right wing on the first unit with Nick Suzuki and Alex Newhook. Meanwhile, Sean Monahan dated Tanner Pearson and Josh Anderson.
Photo Martin Chevalier
“I know my job and I have to create opportunities for my two teammates,” said Gallagher. I’m looking forward to this game, it’s an opportunity for me to play with two very good players. »
CH training in training
Newhook Suzuki Gallagher
Caufield-Dvorak-Slafkovsky
Pearson-Monahan-Anderson
Pezzetta-Evans-Ylönen
Matheson Barron
Guhle Kovacevic
Struble-Lindström