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 come into effect for the 2026-27 season once Hutson’s initial rookie contract concludes, lasting until 2033-34. 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 achieved a franchise record for rookies by amassing 66 points and equaled the franchise’s highest with 60 assists. He not only topped all rookies in points but also excelled in power-play points with 26 and maintained an average ice time of 22 minutes and 44 seconds across 82 games.
Hutson played a pivotal role in propelling the youthful, reconstructing Canadiens to secure a playoff spot last season, marking their first appearance in four years. His accomplishments led to him becoming the seventh player in Canadiens history to receive the Calder Trophy, following goalie Ken Dryden’s win in 1971-72.