2026 Olympics: “I like the idea of seeing Cole Caufield play with Auston Matthews.”

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2026 Olympics: “I like the idea of seeing Cole Caufield play with Auston Matthews.”
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Tomorrow is the deadline for the various hockey federations to submit their final rosters for the upcoming Olympic Games. That means final decisions are being made everywhere… and the Habs have a few guys to keep an eye on.

We already know that Juraj Slafkovský will be there, just as we know that Alexandre Texier will be on the French team. But in reality, it's not the races that are the focus of attention.

Of the lot, we're talking much more about what's going on with Cole Caufield and the United States. We know that Caufield is having a great season, but from what we understand, he shouldn't be part of the team that will be submitted tomorrow.

However, there are some people who don't necessarily agree with this. Among them is John Buccigross, who would like to see Caufield play an important role for his country:

I like the idea of Cole Caufield playing with Auston Matthews. – John Buccigross

Buccigross therefore places Caufield on the wing of the second line (with Matthews, but also with Matt Boldy), which would give him a role on his team's top-6. The journalist sees a good fit between the two guys, noting that Caufield's outgoing personality could bring out a little something in Matthews.

Frank Seravalli, for his part, doesn't put Caufield on the list. And neither sees Lane Hutson making the club.

On the 32 Thoughts Podcast, we note that Elliotte Friedman, who is well connected throughout the NHL, has compiled a list of 12 forwards who, in his eyes, have a guaranteed spot with Team Canadiens. Notably absent from this list is Nick Suzuki.

There should be 14 forwards chosen, so there's still room. But then again, would that mean he'd be there as an extra?

Friedman, however, seems quite a bit more optimistic about Oliver Kapanen's chances with Finland. In fact, in his eyes, Kapanen has a guaranteed spot on his team.

I wonder if Patrik Laine will have one…

The next few hours will be really, really interesting in this matter. And what's clear is that there are many players in Montreal who will be following this closely.

Let's see which ones get picked now.


Overtime

– Speaking of the Olympics.

– It's been a big year for the kid.

– Transaction in the QMJHL.

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