Montreal Canadiens right winger Cole Caufield. David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Canadiens star changes jersey number in honor of Johnny Gaudreau

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Renzo Pocholo Salao | Last updated Sep 4, 2024 12:12 AM ET

Montreal Canadiens winger Cole Caufield recently announced his plan to honor Johnny Gaudreau, who died in a tragic accident last week.

Gaudreau and his younger brother Matthew died last Thursday after the two were struck by a drunk driver while biking in their hometown of Oldmans Township, N.J.

Caufield grew up idolizing Gaudreau as an inspiration for smaller players in the NHL. The 5-foot-9 Gaudreau was a Calder Trophy finalist in 2015 and was named an All-Star during his final season with the Calgary Flames in 2022.

On Tuesday, Caufield announced in a heartfelt Instagram post that he would be switching his jersey number from No. 22 to Gaudreau’s No. 13 for the upcoming NHL season.

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A post shared by ColeCaufield (@colecaufield)

Caufield, who stands at 5-foot-8, also thanked Gaudreau for “paving the way” for smaller hockey players, proving that they “had a future in this game at the highest level.”

The two were never teammates in the NHL. Gaudreau played for both the Calgary Flames and the Columbus Blue Jackets, while Caufield has only suited up for the Canadiens.

However, Gaudreau and Caufield were able to take the ice together as members of the U.S. team for the IIHF World Championship held earlier this year.

Gaudreau’s impact to hockey is undeniable. But based on his wife Meredith’s recent Instagram posts, Johnny may have been an even better person, partner, and father.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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