Canadiens sign Lane Hutson to entry-level contract – Hockey Writers – Montreal Canadiens

He was selected by Montreal in the second round of the 2022 draft (62nd overall). Since that day, many pundits have declared that the dynamic puck player will be a staple on the Habs' blue line, and even believe he will become a star. Once he dresses, he will become the third member of the 2022 draft class to make his NHL debut for the Canadiens, following Juraj Slafkowski and Owen Beck, who were the first general manager (GM) Kent Hughes to help the franchise. . Hutson slid down the draft board simply because of size. His performances since that day have put those concerns to rest for now.

It was Hutson Hobey Baker Award Finalist in 2023 and Top 10 Finalist in 2024. During his NCAA career at Boston University, he was a dominant performer. He finished the campaign with 15 goals in 38 games and 49 points, one more than his freshman season, one less. He capped off his collegiate career by winning a gold medal with the U.S. at the 2024 World Junior Championships and playing a key role in the top four for Team USA at the 2023 Men's World Championships.

Related: Canadiens develop next offensive weapon in Lane Hutson

He improved significantly in the defensive zone last season. He plays loose but not careless. He's fearless and takes risks without fear of making a mistake, as he's able to use his mobility to help him recover and regain his defensive position. Mistakes happen, but instead of always playing it safe, he pushes the pace. He has an impressive skill set, but it's his consistency of approach and ability to consistently execute simple plays that set him apart. Hutson is a unique role of a man – he turns easily and is very difficult to stop with quick feet. He is incredibly deceptive and uses his false head to lure opponents in before performing a high-impact move.

He's done nothing but break records and has some challenges defensively due to his size, but he's proven he has the potential to be an effective Quinn Hughes-style forward in the NHL, which is alleviated by the dynamic offensive skills he can provide. Hutson has proven to be an elite power play weapon thanks to his shoulder-dropping feet along the blue line, which he uses to create space and open up multiple shooting or passing options. He exudes confidence while handling the puck, controlling the game with movement and shot selection. His great shooting accuracy makes up for what he lacks in speed, and his sneaky release makes him dangerous. While his shot isn't particularly fast, it's the deceptive nature of the shot's spin angle and timing that makes it difficult for goaltenders to position themselves and predict where the puck will end up.

The Canadiens have three games left in the regular season: on the road against the Ottawa Senators and Detroit Red Wings on Saturday and Monday, and at home against the Red Wings on Tuesday for the final game of the 2023-24 campaign. With only a handful of games left on Montreal's schedule, Hutson, just 20 years old, is expected to make his debut with the Canadiens before the season ends. It will come at a cost, as joining the roster now means he burns through the first year of his three-year deal. He should be excited as he has a chance to make his NHL debut in Michigan when Montreal plays Detroit over the weekend.