Logan Mailloux and Lane Hutson about to hear some good news from Martin St-Louis?
The future of the Canadiens' defense seems to rest on two young players, Logan Mailloux and Lane Hutson, who are expected to be ready to make the jump to the NHL this year, according to many.
Of course, there are other intriguing names like David Reinbacher and Adam Engstrom also pushing for spots, but for now, Hutson and Mailloux are stealing the spotlight.
However, with six regular defensemen already in the lineup, the Canadiens may face a significant challenge, and Kent Hughes might have to make some tough decisions, such as sending both to Laval.
There is congestion on the blue line, and the training camp will be crucial. Currently, Michael Matheson, David Savard, Kaiden Guhle, and Arber Xhekaj are assured spots, and the remaining two or three positions will need to be divided among Lane Hutson, Logan Mailloux, Jayden Struble, and Justin Barron.
According to Stu Cowan, two of these three spots will be filled by the two rookies.
Thus, there are several possible scenarios for Martin St-Louis and Kent Hughes:
1- Eight defensemen travel with the team;
2-Jayden Struble is sent to Laval or traded;
3-Justin Barron is traded or placed on waivers.
In my view, leaving Lane Hutson or Logan Mailloux out of the lineup is not a viable option. They need to play hockey to continue developing, and if they are to be kept out of the NHL lineup, they might as well be given substantial minutes in the AHL.
| POLL | ||
In your opinion, will Lane Hutson and Logan Mailloux start the season with the Canadiens? | ||
| Yes | 168 | 59.8 % |
| Only Lane Hutson | 63 | 22.4 % |
| Only Logan Mailloux | 24 | 8.5 % |
| No | 26 | 9.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
