In a hockey market like Montreal, enthusiasm for Canadiens players is often amplified. This dynamic results mainly from the deep attachment to this team and the passion that drives the supporters of the metropolis. If this enthusiasm can sometimes seem exaggerated, at other times it is fully deserved.
Lane Hutson perfectly illustrates the latter case. Ignored by several troops during the 2022 draft, he was only selected 62nd by the CH. A player selected at this stage would normally need a period of adaptation to the professional level, often via a stint in the American Hockey League (AHL). However, the little number 48 quickly exceeded expectations. As soon as he finished his NCAA career with the Boston University Terriers in April 2024, he joined the Canadiens squad and played the last two games of the 2023-2024 season, including recording his first two career points.
All summer, experts debated its future: should it start in Laval or Montreal? Opinions were divided, but training camp quickly dispelled any doubts. His place was clearly with the big club, a decision that proved wise given his remarkable impact in 2024-25. As of this writing, the 20-year-old American ranks as the sixth most prolific defenseman in the entire National Hockey League (NHL), an impressive achievement considering his young age and limited experience.
Among the recruits, Hutson stands out even more. With 38 points to his name, he dominates the first-year players, outperforming his closest rival by five points. He is also on a streak of eight consecutive games with at least one point, a performance that places him second in Bettman Tour history for such a streak among rookie guards, one duel from Shayne Gostisbehere’s all-time record.
-Even more impressive, as pointed out by Shayne Gaumond and Grant McCagg of The Sick Podcast – Recutes DraftcastHutson is on pace to have the season with the most assists for a rookie defenseman in NHL history.
Currently at 35 assists in 46 games, he has 36 matches left to improve this total. With an average of 0.76 assists per game, he could finish with 62 assists, surpassing the record of 60 established by Larry Murphy with the Los Angeles Kings in 1980-1981. This feat would be nothing short of extraordinary for the Holland, Michigan native.
