Montreal Canadiens Return to Playoffs
In the highly competitive landscape of the NHL, the Montreal Canadiens have made their return to the playoffs in the 2024-25 season, largely due to the outstanding performance of rookie defenseman Lane Hutson.
Lane Hutson’s Impressive Rookie Season
At just 21 years old, Hutson emerged as a prominent figure in hockey, finishing his debut season with an impressive tally of 66 points, which included six goals and 60 assists over the course of 82 games. His remarkable achievements did not go unnoticed, earning him the prestigious Calder Memorial Trophy, awarded to the league’s top rookie.
Future Expectations
As the Canadiens look toward the future, Hutson’s strong showing has garnered attention, placing him at No. 50 in Sportsnet’s latest ranking of the top 50 NHL players heading into the 2025-26 season. This recognition is a testament to his significant impact during the previous season.
With such a stellar rookie performance under his belt, expectations are high for Hutson as he gains valuable experience in the league.
Notable Comparisons
He joins a list of notable players whose rankings precede him, including veterans like Jake Guentzel from the Tampa Bay Lightning, Thomas Harley of the Dallas Stars, and Jesper Bratt from the New Jersey Devils. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Hutson will elevate his game in the upcoming season.
Given his trajectory, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him climb higher in the rankings next year if he continues to develop his skills with the Canadiens.
