No matter the opponent or the arena, the Montreal Canadiens rule these days. With 12 victories in 17 games since December 13, they have the best record in the National Hockey League (NHL) over this period and position themselves as one of the most prominent teams currently.
The adjustments made to the roster and the chemistry developed within the lines have propelled the team to the top of the standings, reviving fans’ hopes for a possible participation in the spring waltz of 2025. Currently, the CH is only one point from the last place giving access to the playoffs in the Eastern Association, a situation still unimaginable a few weeks ago.
The return to play of Patrik Laine and the addition of Alexandre Carrier played key roles in this spectacular comeback. In addition to being prolific, these two players brought valuable stability and balance to the different units. This positive dynamic particularly benefits Lane Hutson, who has had a remarkable streak since the insertion of Laine into the lineup (December 3) and the arrival of Carrier (December 18). The young defender is accumulating points at a pace worthy of the best on the Bettman circuit.
Since December 1, Hutson has been the guard with the most assists in the NHL. He also ranks fifth across all positions with 22 assists. Over the same period, he is the second highest point scorer among the crossing guards, with an impressive collection of 25 points in 23 games. At only 20 years old, he never ceases to surprise.
-His consistency is also reflected in an active series of eight consecutive duels with at least one point, which began on January 4. This performance is the second longest for a CH rookie since Stéphan Lebeau (1989-1990) and the second best for a first-year defenseman in NHL history.
The absolute record belongs to Shayne Gostisbehere of the Carolina Hurricanes, who had nine straight games with a point in 2015-2016 while playing for the Philadelphia Flyers. Hutson could match this feat in the next matchup against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday.
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