Montreal Canadiens fans have a new reason to celebrate as young defenseman Lane Hutson continues to make an impression. While some expected veteran forward Patrik Laine to be highlighted, it’s Hutson’s skill and hockey sense—showcased in just 84 regular-season games—that have drawn attention from franchise icons and hockey legends alike.
Hutson’s rookie season already showcased his impact on the ice. The 21-year-old defenseman helped Montreal reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2021, recording five assists in the opening round against the Washington Capitals. His agility and poise under pressure have set him apart from other young players in the league.
Hall of Famer Serge Savard made his admiration clear: “Time will tell, but he’s probably the most talented player the Canadiens have had since Guy Lafleur,” Savard said, according to NHL.com.
He added: “Ever since I saw him, from the very beginning, I said he was the Canadiens’ best player. I was convinced early on that he would be a big star in the National Hockey League.”
Lane Hutson #48 of the Montreal Canadiens handles the puck against the Washington Capitals during the third period in Game Five of the First Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Capital One Arena on April 30, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
What makes Lane Hutson stand out among NHL rookies?
Hutson led all NHL rookies last season in points (66) and assists (60), capturing the Calder Trophy as the league’s top rookie. He also tied for second among defensemen in assists, just two behind Colorado Avalanche star Cale Makar, and finished ninth in Norris Trophy voting. His two-way game and hockey IQ have quickly placed him among the league’s elite young defensemen.
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How does Hutson compare to Canadiens legends?
Savard shared his comments at his annual golf tournament at Le Mirage Golf Club in Terrebonne, Quebec, where Hall of Famers such as Larry Robinson, Bobby Orr, Darryl Sittler, Bobby Clarke, and Scotty Bowman were in attendance, alongside former Canadiens stars like Bob Gainey, Guy Lapointe, and Steve Shutt.
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Hutson’s rapid rise draws comparisons to Canadiens legends like Guy Lafleur and Larry Robinson. Robinson noted: “The first thing everyone said about Hutson was that he was so small he was going to get killed. It reminds me a lot of what people used to say in Wayne Gretzky’s day. They said he wasn’t big enough and that he was going to get hurt. Look at what he’s done, it’s not so bad! It’s exciting for the city of Montreal to have a player like Hutson.”
