Huge statement regarding the real potential of Lane Hutson

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Elias Edmonson
June 17, 2023 (1:50 PM)

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Since the Canadiens set their sights on Lane Hutson with their 62nd overall pick last year, the 19-year-old defenseman has been nothing but impressive. He even had a historic season in his first year in the university ranks, collecting 15 goals and 33 assists in 39 games. His impressive production notably allowed him to be the under-20 defender with the highest points per game average in the last ten years in the NCAA.

The Canadiens' prospect also represented the United States at the last World Championship. Despite playing against men, including several NHL players, Lane Hutson performed very well, collecting 6 points in 9 matches with the American team.

However, his small stature worries many experts who firmly believe that the defenseman will be unable to raise his level of play once he reaches the NHL. On the other hand, Scott Wheeler ofThe Athletic does not agree at all. According to him, Hutson has exceptional skills that will undoubtedly make him a formidable weapon on the power play.

"Hutson is the real deal. I had him top-20 on my board pre-draft and he'd be a lot closer to there in a do-over than he would be to where he was picked. His pivots can occasionally burn him and could use some cleaning up, and he's never going to be rock solid in front of the net on box-outs, but his skill and maneuverability are both star level and I think that carry him to a PP1/second pairing role as an impact guy and a bit of a unicorn in the league."

The young defenseman will certainly have to work on his defensive shortcomings before he can earn a full-time post with the Canadiens, but his remarkable puck handling skills will make him an electrifying player in the NHL. One thing's for sure, we can't wait to see him play his second season with Boston University and we're very excited to see him don a Canadiens' jersey.