The Montreal Canadiens have secured defenseman Lane Hutson, last season’s NHL rookie of the year, with an eight-year contract extension worth $70.8 million US. The extension will become effective starting from the 2026-27 season upon the expiration of Hutson’s rookie contract and will run until 2033-34. Originally hailing from Michigan, the 21-year-old was drafted in the second round of the 2022 draft from Boston University.
During his debut full NHL season, Hutson made a significant impact, setting a new franchise record for single-season rookie points with 66 and equalling the franchise’s assist record with 60. He outshone all other rookies in points, power-play points with 26, and maintained an impressive average ice time of 22 minutes and 44 seconds over 82 games.
Hutson played a pivotal role in aiding the youthful Canadiens in reaching the playoffs last season, marking their first appearance in four years. His outstanding performance earned him the Calder Trophy, making him the seventh player in Canadiens’ history to receive this honor, the first being goalie Ken Dryden back in 1971-72.