Lane Hutson Contract Delay: What’s Really Happening?

Rising Star, Delayed Deal

Lane Hutson emerged as one of the brightest young talents in the NHL during the 2024–25 season. His electrifying speed, elite puck movement, and power play quarterbacking turned heads across the league and cemented his status as a foundational piece for the Montreal Canadiens’ future. Yet, as the 2025 offseason rolls on, there remains one lingering question: why hasn’t Hutson signed a long-term extension?

A Record-Breaking Rookie Year

In his first full NHL season, Hutson notched 66 points in 82 games, a record for a Canadiens rookie defenseman. His chemistry with Kaiden Guhle on the blue line and with Cole Caufield on the man advantage added a new dimension to Montreal’s offense. Fans and analysts expected a quick contract resolution, perhaps mirroring the early extensions seen with other NHL rookies.

A Strategic Delay or a Missed Opportunity?

General manager Kent Hughes has a history of being deliberate with decisions, especially when it comes to the cap. So far, there’s no panic from management, and with Hutson still on his entry-level deal through next season, they’ve got time. But you have to wonder, if he pops off again this year, aren’t you just paying more later?

The Canadiens are walking a fine line, keeping future flexibility while also signaling confidence in their stars. It’s a balancing act, and Hughes seems content to wait. But fans? Not so much. They want action. They want certainty.

From Hutson’s Point of View

Put yourself in Hutson’s skates. He just broke rookie records in one of hockey’s most pressure-packed markets. He knows his value is trending up. Maybe his camp is thinking: let’s play out another season, prove it wasn’t a fluke, and cash in even bigger.

It’s a gamble, but one that could pay off. Or not. One injury or slump, and the tone of this conversation shifts completely.

What the Fans Are Saying

On social media and in Habs forums, the sentiment is clear: lock him up. There’s a fear that waiting will either cost more or open the door for tension down the line. So far, there’s no public drama, but fans have seen this movie before.

At the same time, many understand the long game. The Canadiens have a young core, Demidov, Slafkovsky, Guhle, and juggling all these future deals takes serious planning. It’s not just about one contract.

So… What’s the Play?

Look, this isn’t a crisis. Yet. But it is something to watch. Montreal has a rare talent in Lane Hutson. He’s not just a solid piece, he’s part of the identity this team is building. And locking in that kind of player, at the right price, could be the move that anchors this rebuild.

For now, it’s a staring contest. And the clock is ticking.

Is the Canadiens front office playing this right or risking a bigger payout down the line? Let us know what you think. Hit us up on social media and join the conversation.

Fans may need patience, but the payoff for both Hutson and the Habs could be worth the wait.