CHICAGO | With 13 points in 14 games, it’s no surprise that Lane Hutson won the rookie of the year award for the month of December.
After all, it’s just a continuation of what the 20-year-old defender has accomplished since the start of the campaign to the great delight of the Canadian’s fans, his teammates and his coaches.
The American only has 39 games of experience under his belt, but those who have the opportunity to see him at work night after night are already well aware of the agility of his hands and his offensive flair. and his vision of the game. You don’t become the quarterback of a massive attack at 20 by chance.
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If the way he runs the attack is obvious, his level of competition should not be overlooked.
“In battles for the puck, he is impressive for a guy of his stature,” said Trevor Letowski. He has this special advantage. You throw a puck in the corner and there’s a good chance he’ll be the one to come out with it. It doesn’t matter who he is in front of. »
As we reach the halfway point of the season, there is reason to wonder if the defenseman will hit a wall. The one that college hockey players often hit in their first full professional season.
“Time will tell, but his level of commitment and the way he works doesn’t give the impression that he’s a first-year player. He seems more experienced than that,” mentioned Martin St-Louis’ assistant.
Team first
Besides, Hutson was working extra minutes after practice, while we were talking with Letowski.
“It’s cool, but I don’t want to pay too much attention to it,” Hutson said of her title once she left the ice. The fact that the team is playing well has helped me a lot in that regard. »
In this regard, it’s a bit like the story of the egg and the chicken. Which came first? Hard to say.
But one thing is certain. It’s impressive to see the quality of the young man’s game when you realize that he is still in the process of learning.
“I am improving from match to match. I’m starting to find what works and what doesn’t work,” he said, once again taking care to bring the spotlight back on the team.
“We are heading in the right direction. The goal is to make the playoffs.”
An eye on the little brother
Lane isn’t the only Hutson doing well these days. In Ottawa, Cole, his younger brother, has trouble with the American team. After the preliminary round, the 18-year-old defender dominated the World Junior Championship points column with eight points, tied with Swede Axel Sandin Pellikka.
“It’s not going too bad for him,” he said with a smirk. I hope things continue to go well and that we can bring another gold medal to the United States. »
Moreover, the stature and style of Cole, a second round choice of the Capitals in the last draft, are reminiscent of those of the Canadian’s young sensation.
“Having three brothers to learn and try different things with, to compete against and push each other were big factors for all of us,” he explained.
In addition to Lane and Cole, we find Quinn, the eldest, a 23-year-old forward who is playing his third season at Boston University. Lars, 16, continues his journey in minor hockey.
