In just 84 regular-season NHL games with the Montreal Canadiens, Lane Hutson has captured the attention and admiration of two of the franchise’s most iconic figures. Eight-time Stanley Cup champion Serge Savard went so far as to call him “probably the most talented player the Canadiens have had since Guy Lafleur.”
Such high praise underscores the impact Hutson has made early in his career, sparking comparisons to some of the greatest players in hockey history.
Hutson Overcomes Size Doubts, Shines as Record-Breaking Rookie in Montreal Canadiens History
Hall of Famer Larry Robinson drew parallels between the skepticism Hutson faced about his size and the doubts that once surrounded Wayne Gretzky. Standing at 5-foot-9 and weighing 162 pounds, Hutson’s stature has been a talking point since his debut.
Robinson noted that similar concerns were raised about Gretzky, yet the latter went on to have a legendary career. For Hutson, his ability to avoid injury and thrive against larger opponents is becoming part of his growing reputation.
Lane Hutson (NFL)Hutson’s on-ice performance speaks volumes. Leading all NHL rookies last season with 66 points and 60 assists, he captured the Calder Trophy as Rookie of the Year. He tied Vancouver’s Quinn Hughes for second among defensemen in assists, trailing only Colorado’s Cale Makar.
His playmaking skills also helped Montreal reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2021, where he tallied five assists in the first-round series against the Washington Capitals.
Hutson’s Brilliance and Contract Talks Signal Bright Future for Montreal Canadiens
Savard emphasized Hutson’s poise and agility in high-pressure situations, praising his knack for evading larger opponents without sacrificing effectiveness. Speaking during his annual golf tournament alongside legends like Bobby Orr and Scotty Bowman, Savard remarked that Hutson’s style fits perfectly with Montreal’s tradition of skill and creativity. Robinson echoed these sentiments, calling Hutson’s game “exciting for the city” and reminiscent of hockey’s all-time greats.
With Hutson entering the final year of his entry-level contract, negotiations are reportedly moving in a positive direction. Drafted 62nd overall in 2022, he is now a central figure in Montreal’s young defensive core alongside Noah Dobson, Kaiden Guile, Jayden Struble, and veteran Mike Matheson.
A potential extension in the range of seven years and $56 million would secure a cornerstone talent, giving the Canadiens stability as they aim to contend in a more open Eastern Conference. For Montreal, keeping Hutson long-term could be the linchpin in building a championship-caliber roster.
