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Calder Trophy winner Lane Hutson still waiting on extension as Montreal Canadiens eye Luke Hughes contract

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Lane Hutson ’s rookie season was one to remember, capped off by winning the Calder Trophy after an outstanding debut with the Montreal Canadiens . Despite being eligible for an extension, the 21-year-old defenseman has yet to see a deal come together. Reports suggest the Canadiens are in no rush, instead watching how negotiations unfold between Luke Hughes and the New Jersey Devils before finalizing their own long-term plans with Hutson.


Montreal Canadiens patient with Lane Hutson contract extension despite Calder Trophy success



Hutson quickly established himself as one of the NHL’s most electrifying young defensemen last season. Long considered undersized by traditional standards, he silenced critics by tallying six goals and 66 points in his rookie campaign, proving that his offensive creativity translates perfectly at the professional level. That performance not only earned him the Calder Trophy but also placed him among the league’s brightest up-and-coming stars.


Despite his success, extension talks between Hutson and the Canadiens have been quiet. Both sides appear content to take a measured approach, ensuring the team maintains salary cap flexibility while the player solidifies his value in a developing blue-line core. For now, patience is the strategy, even if fans are eager to see the young defenseman locked in long term.





Luke Hughes contract negotiations with New Jersey Devils could set market for Lane Hutson and Montreal Canadiens extension


According to NHL insider Cam Robinson, the Canadiens may be waiting for Luke Hughes’ new deal with the New Jersey Devils before advancing negotiations with Hutson. As a fellow highly touted young defenseman, Hughes offers a natural comparable for Hutson’s next contract.





Hughes is currently a restricted free agent, and his eventual number could help set the market for players in this tier. While Hutson’s rookie production surpassed Hughes, Montreal and Hutson’s camp both recognize the importance of letting another key contract fall into place before making a long-term commitment. The Canadiens want to ensure the deal reflects Hutson’s true standing among his peers, and Hutson himself reportedly believes he holds the edge over Hughes at this point in their careers.


Lane Hutson’s extension with the Montreal Canadiens may not arrive immediately, but the strategy is clear. By waiting on Luke Hughes’ negotiations with the New Jersey Devils, both Hutson and the Canadiens gain clarity on what a fair market value might look like. For now, Montreal fans can take comfort in knowing the team’s Calder Trophy winner remains focused on building upon an impressive rookie year while his future contract takes shape.


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