Lane Hutson Wins Calder Trophy
In a remarkable announcement, Lane Hutson, a 21-year-old rookie defenseman for the Montreal Canadiens, has earned the prestigious Calder Trophy for the 2024-25 NHL season, solidifying his status as the league’s top first-year player. This accolade, awarded by the Professional Hockey Writers Association, is a significant achievement for Hutson, who celebrated the occasion with over 50 family members and friends at a dinner in Lake Barrington, Illinois. Although the gathering was initially to commemorate his nomination, most attendees were unaware that the trophy would be presented that evening.
Voting and Competition
Hutson’s victory was decisive, as he garnered an impressive 165 first-place votes from the 191 ballots cast, along with 26 second-place votes, ensuring he was rated no lower than second by any voter. The runner-up, Calgary Flames goalie Duston Wolf, trailed significantly, acquiring just 39 first-place votes and the highest number of second-place votes with 96. San Jose Sharks‘ Macklin Celebrini, the first overall pick of the 2024 draft, rounded out the top three.
Historic Achievement
In a historic context, Hutson becomes only the second Montreal player to capture the Calder Trophy since the 1967-68 season, following in the footsteps of legendary goaltender Ken Dryden, who won the award in the 1971-72 season. He also joins an elite group of defensemen to lead all rookies in scoring, a list that includes hall-of-famers Bobby Orr, Brian Leetch, and current star Quinn Hughes. Hutson’s 66 points, consisting of 60 assists and 6 goals, are notable, marking a new franchise record for rookie defensemen while placing him second among this select company. His average of 0.80 points per game also ranks second in the NHL among rookie defensemen.
Standout Performance
Hutson’s standout performance particularly shone when playing against teams within the Atlantic Division, where he posted 29 points (1 goal and 28 assists) in just 26 games, averaging an impressive 1.12 points per game in these crucial matchups. Meanwhile, against the rest of the league, he accumulated 37 points over 56 games, equating to a lower average of 0.66.
Recognition at NHL Awards
Among other rookies receiving votes, Philadelphia Flyers‘ Matvei Michkov came in fourth with an impressive 26 goals but did not capture any first-place votes. Anaheim Ducks’ Cutter Gauthier and a few others rounded out the voting. Hutson’s accolades will be formally recognized at the 2025 NHL Awards show, scheduled for June 12 at 6 p.m. ET, ensuring he remains a prominent figure in conversations surrounding this season’s achievements in the NHL.
