Canadiens Sign Defenseman Lane Hutson to Eight-Year Deal

BROSSARD, Quebec – The Montreal Canadiens announced Monday that they have signed defenseman Lane Hutson to a new eight-year contract worth $70.8 million. The deal will take effect for the 2026-27 season and carries an average annual salary of $8.85 million.

The 21-year-old Hutson had an impressive rookie season in 2024-25, scoring six goals and providing 60 assists for a total of 66 points in 82 games. He led all NHL rookies in points and assists, finally topping the Canadiens leaderboard in assists.

This achievement has made Hutson a prominent figure in the franchise, as he set a new record for most points by a rookie defenseman in Canadiens history. His 60 assists also tied the all-time NHL record for assists by a rookie blue-liner, previously held by Larry Murphy since the 1980-81 season.

Notably, Hutson won the Calder Memorial Trophy last season, joining only Ken Dryden as the second Canadiens player in history to earn the award. He was selected by the Canadiens in the second round of the 2022 NHL Draft, 62nd overall.

In the current season, Hutson has recorded one assist, four shots on goal, and three blocked shots in his first three games. The signing comes at a crucial time for the Canadiens, following their earlier contract extensions for other young talents like Luke Hughes and Jackson LaCombe.

Montreal is currently sporting a 2-1-0 record and is set to host their next game on Tuesday.