The Montreal Canadiens are going all-in on Lane Hutson—and not everyone is cheering.
On Monday, general manager Kent Hughes announced an eight-year, $70.8 million contract extension for the 21-year-old defenseman, locking him in through the 2033-34 season at an average annual value of $8.85 million. The deal begins in 2026-27, but the message is clear now: Hutson isn’t just the future—he’s the foundation.
The move comes after a historic rookie campaign in which Hutson racked up 66 points (6 goals, 60 assists) in 82 games, leading all NHL rookies in points, assists, power play production, and average ice time. His 60 assists tied Larry Murphy’s 1980-81 record for most by a rookie defenseman, and his 66 points set a new franchise record for a Canadiens rookie blue-liner.
He was rewarded with the Calder Memorial Trophy, becoming the first Hab since Ken Dryden in 1971-72 to win the award.
But the timing and size of the contract have raised eyebrows across the league. Critics question whether one standout season is enough to justify a long-term, high-stakes investment—especially for a player drafted 62nd overall just three years ago.
“Are the Canadiens paying for potential or panicking to secure a star before he bolts?” one analyst asked on-air Monday night.
Supporters argue that locking in a rising star before his price skyrockets is smart business. Detractors see echoes of past overreaches that backfired.
For now, Hutson remains the centerpiece of Montreal’s rebuild—and the pressure just multiplied.