MONTREAL — The question on the minds of dedicated Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) fans: who shares the second-highest rank with Marie-Philip Poulin on Montreal’s team for game-winning goals this season? Laura Stacey? Not quite. Abby Roque? No. The answer, surprisingly, is Catherine Dubois.
Dubois, like the captain and leading force of Montreal, has tallied two crucial goals in the 2025-26 season. Both came in the team’s last two contests: against the Minnesota Frost last Wednesday, and against the Modern York Sirens in a game played in Detroit on Saturday. These goals arrived during a critical period, as Poulin is sidelined with a lower-body injury and will miss at least two more games, including Wednesday’s matchup against the Vancouver Goldeneyes at Place Bell.
The timing has understandably focused attention on Dubois, and it appears the Quebec native is hitting a stride with Montreal. Whereas she had a three-game stretch last season with three goals and an assist, her current run of four goals in as many games – including a two-goal performance in under five minutes against the Sirens that flipped a 0-1 deficit into a 2-1 lead en route to a 3-1 victory – marks a new level of offensive contribution.
“I don’t know. I don’t think I’ve really changed my game,” Dubois said when asked if fans were seeing the best version of her in three years. “I think I’m just the same player I was. But I’ve definitely had opportunities that have given me a chance to step up. I’m really grateful for those opportunities. I just want to continue to improve and aid the team in any way I can.”
Those opportunities stemmed from a strategic decision by head coach Kori Cheverie to move Dubois onto the top line alongside Stacey and Roque during the second period of the March 15th game against the Boston Fleet, following Poulin’s injury. The move, while potentially unexpected given Dubois had been a healthy scratch for the two prior games, has clearly unlocked a new dynamic for the Montreal offense.
Being sidelined is never effortless for a player, Dubois admitted. “We’re hockey players, we always want to play and be on the ice with our teammates. It hurts, and it shakes you up a bit,” she said. “But when I get shaken up, I think in my personality, I have a little extra internal motivation. I strive to stay in the moment and do things even better and be better.”
Stacey acknowledged the difficulty of Dubois’ situation, drawing on her own experiences. “It’s tough going from being a healthy scratch to getting a few minutes on the ice and then suddenly being on the first line,” Stacey said. “Obviously, all you want to do is help your team, and you grip your stick a little tighter because you finally have that opportunity.”
“I’m really happy with how she’s handled it,” Stacey continued. “She came in and didn’t change. She didn’t try to be someone else. She tried to be exactly who she is, and that’s what we needed. And I think that applies to everyone in this locker room. We don’t need magic. Yes, we have a lot of players out. Yes, we’re missing some talent. But if everyone gives their best, we’ll succeed. And I think that’s exactly what ‘Cath’ is doing.”
The team’s playful teasing of Dubois, a testament to her recent success, was highlighted by Cheverie. Before Tuesday’s practice, Cheverie recounted a lighthearted exchange in the locker room. “We asked ‘Cath, what are you good at?’ We went around the room, and she said: penalty killing, front-net presence. And the girls said, ‘Oh, you score goals!’ It was funny to see them calling her the team’s goal scorer this morning, which is great. I think that’s the strength of our group; we motivate each other.”
Montreal will aim to extend their winning streak to 12 consecutive games against the Goldeneyes on Wednesday, which would set a league record. The game could too mark the return of defenseman Erin Ambrose, who has missed the last eight games since the return from the Olympic break due to a lower-body injury, according to the official PWHL website.
Dubois’s Rise: A Combination of Opportunity and Resilience
Dubois’s recent performance isn’t simply about capitalizing on Poulin’s absence; it’s a demonstration of her ability to seize an opportunity and elevate her game when called upon. The shift to the top line, while initially surprising, has proven to be a catalyst for her offensive output. Her two-goal performance against the Sirens, turning a one-goal deficit into a lead, exemplifies her clutch playmaking ability.
The Impact of Team Chemistry
The supportive environment fostered by Cheverie and the veteran players like Stacey is clearly playing a role in Dubois’s success. The locker room anecdote shared by Cheverie highlights the team’s ability to celebrate individual achievements while maintaining a collective focus. This positive dynamic is crucial, especially during a stretch where the team is navigating injuries to key players.
Looking Ahead: Maintaining Momentum
As Montreal looks to continue its impressive run, Dubois’s continued contributions will be vital. The team’s ability to overcome adversity and rely on players stepping up in key moments is a testament to their depth and resilience. The upcoming game against Vancouver presents an opportunity to further solidify their position in the league standings and potentially set a new record for consecutive wins.
The PWHL season is rapidly approaching its critical stages, and the performance of players like Catherine Dubois will undoubtedly be a key factor in determining the championship contenders. Her story is a reminder that success in professional sports often requires not only talent but also the ability to embrace opportunity and thrive under pressure.
Fans can follow the Montreal team’s progress and find updates on the PWHL schedule and standings on the official league website.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, resources are available. You can reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 in the US and Canada, or by dialing 111 in the UK. These services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.
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