Montreal Canadiens forward Cole Caufield scored twice in the team’s 4-3 overtime defeat to the New York Islanders on Saturday, marking his impressive six goals in the first six games of the season. This achievement makes him the first Canadiens player to reach such a milestone since Brian Savage in 1999, as reported by Sportsnet Stats.
Caufield netted his first goal from a difficult angle, reducing the Islanders’ lead to 2-1, and his second goal was timely, tying the game with just 2:10 left in the third period. However, Noah Dobson scored in overtime to secure the win for the Islanders. Despite the loss, Caufield’s crucial goal earned Montreal a point. He remains a key player for the Canadiens as they aim to build a competitive team, with their record now at 2-3-1.
Following this overtime defeat, the Canadiens will return home to take on the New York Rangers on Tuesday. The Rangers are currently performing well, holding a 4-0-1 record after a road victory against the Toronto Maple Leafs. This matchup is expected to challenge the Canadiens against a stronger Rangers team compared to last season.
After facing the Rangers, Montreal will play against the St. Louis Blues at home before traveling to face the Philadelphia Flyers. This season, the Canadiens have notable wins against the Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators, but have suffered regulation losses to the Boston Bruins, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Los Angeles Kings. The game against the Islanders resulted in an overtime loss, giving them an additional point.
It remains to be seen whether the Canadiens will be competitive this season or if it will primarily be a season focused on development.
