With the primary goal of improving on last NHL season’s performance, the Montreal Canadiens are focused on building a competitive roster capable of rising to the occasion. As part of that effort, one of their key players has yet to finalize his future — a situation that could potentially mirror the path taken by Toronto Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews.
The player in question is talented defenseman Lane Hutson, who, after a strong campaign with the team, is now entering the final season of his contract — leaving his future with the Canadiens still up in the air.
That said, negotiations aren’t just about money — the real focus is on the length of the potential extension, and that’s where Matthews enters the equation. According to analyst Jim Biringer, Hutson could follow the lead of the Toronto Maple Leafs captain by opting for a shorter-term deal, aiming to take advantage of the NHL’s projected rising salary cap under the new collective bargaining agreement.
“I think you’re going to see a different trend now, because the new CBA rules next year, right? Max length is seven, and then six years with another team. We’re seeing projections like $113-$120 million salary cap,” Biringer said on TSN’s Montreal 690. “I could see young players saying, ‘Hey, you know what? Maybe I’ll take three years. Maybe I’ll take four years, and I want to bet on myself again.’
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.
“Is that an option for Lane Hutson? Sure, it is. He’s already a really good defenseman in the National Hockey League.”
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What’s the current situation with Lane Hutson?
Heading into the final year of his entry-level deal, Hutson is an incredible bargain for his team with a meager $950,000 cap hit. His rookie season was spectacular, racking up 66 points and 60 assists, ultimately earning him the Calder Trophy. His on-ice production far exceeds his current contract.
Given his explosive performance, the team faces a pivotal decision on Hutson’s future. They have a chance to lock down a cornerstone player for years. The big question now is what kind of long-term offer will be made, and whether Hutson will take the immediate security or bet on an even bigger payday down the road.
What decision did Matthews make?
Auston Matthews, the Leafs’ captain, made a notable decision in 2019 by signing a five-year, $58.2 million deal. This move was quite uncommon at the time for a player of his caliber, as most stars would opt for the maximum eight-year term to secure long-term stability. Instead, Matthews chose a shorter contract, giving him more flexibility and an earlier return to free agency.
This strategic choice by Matthews has since opened a potential new trend for other elite players in the NHL. By prioritizing a shorter term over max years, he set a precedent that could be replicated by colleagues seeking to maximize their future earnings or gain more control over their career path. This decision could influence how top talent approaches contract negotiations moving forward, potentially reshaping the league’s salary landscape.
