Only weeks ago Lane Hutson received the Calder Memorial Trophy for the best rookie performance in the 2024-25 NHL season. Now, a report indicates the young defenseman is facing a pivotal decision on his upcoming extension with Patrik Laine’s Montreal Canadiens.
Laine isn’t the only star up for an extension in Montreal. On that note, Hutson is eligible to re-sign with the Canadiens, as well. Contrary to Laine, Hutson is a restricted free agent (RFA) so the prospect of losing him isn’t as serious for the Habs.
Still, the Canadiens would much rather work out a new deal with the 21-year-old than see competitors in the NHL prepare offer sheets. On that note, a report around the league suggests Hutson now finds himself at a crossroads regarding his future. It’s unlikely Hutson won’t re-sign with the Canadiens, but the terms of his new contract might require a close, careful look—or two.
Decisions, decisions
“The question is: whether [Hutson] would rather take a short-term bet with the rising cap and see if he can cash in,” Frank Seravalli said on the Bleacher Report Insider Notebook podcast. “Because, if he’s going to get paid and he’s going to go long-term, it’s really fair to say they are going to do it on the Canadiens’ terms.”
Patrik Laine #92 of the Montreal Canadiens against the Toronto Maple Leafs at the Bell Centre on January 18, 2025.
With the NHL’s salary cap set to increase ahead of the 2026–27 campaign, it might be in Hutson’s best interest to play on a contract year this season. Of course, it’s a risky wager, as a sophomore slump could hurt his leverage when it’s time to negotiate an extension next summer.
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Hit a lull
Though talks between the Habs and Hutson seem to be put on hold for a while, there’s little reason to be stressing in the City of Saints. The Canadiens own the rights to the current Calder Trophy winner, and it seems he is in for the long-haul. Still, fans can’t help but wonder how much the team might pay Hutson on his new deal.
“I don’t think that there’s been a ton of progress there. I think they had some initial talks,” Seravalli added. “The [Canadiens] are still looking at that. Because, what do you pay him? I think the ballpark is right in that Brock Faber range (eight-year, $68M). I could see it coming in around that.”
Here to stay
While Laine will consider all his options once the 2025-26 NHL season comes to an end, he recently voiced an honest admission on his stance. As long as the Habs will have him, he seems more than willing to make it all work out in Quebec’s Metropolis.
SurveyWould you be happy with the Canadiens handing Hutson a contract like Brock Faber's extension with the Wild (8-year, $68M)?
Would you be happy with the Canadiens handing Hutson a contract like Brock Faber's extension with the Wild (8-year, $68M)?
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“I’d be more than happy to obviously play here. It’s been an absolute pleasure to be part of this city and this organization for a year now,” Laine commented, according to The Hockey Writers.
