Cole Caufield reportedly left off team USA Olympic roster as final spot goes elsewhere

The countdown is straightforward: rosters must be submitted by Wednesday, December 31. Until something is officially announced, everyone is walking on eggshells-especially Montreal Canadiens players who are part of the discussion.

In Caufield's case, the rumor making the rounds is clear: he would not ultimately be selected for the American team. What's raising eyebrows is that the scenario would also include another major offensive name on the U.S. side.

Jason Robertson currently has 23 goals and 45 points in 38 games with the Dallas Stars. Meanwhile, Caufield is right behind with 18 goals and 36 points in 37 games with the Canadiens. The two are 26 and 24 years old, respectively, and score like top-tier players.

The comparison becomes inevitable when you look at the name most often associated with the final available spot: Vincent Trocheck. The New York Rangers center has eight goals and 20 points in 25 games at age 32.

On paper, it looks more like a profile-based choice than a production-based one, and that's where the comments start flying in all directions.

Caufield, for his part, is already paid like a core piece in Montreal. He is under contract for eight years, with a cap hit of $7.85 million per season, and the deal runs through the end of the 2030-31 season.

Robertson, meanwhile, carries a $7.75 million cap hit, and his contract expires after the 2025-26 season.

As for Trocheck, he has a $5.625 million cap hit and a contract that runs through 2028-29. In short, if the American team truly goes in that direction, it won't be because of a lack of production from Caufield.

The men's tournament begins on February 11, 2026, and the final is scheduled for February 22 in Italy.

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