Star Defenseman May Want Out, Leaving Leafs’ Heated Atlantic Division Rival in a Tough Spot

Lane Hutson may not want to re-sign with the Canadiens

Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

The Montreal Canadiens are currently in a tough spot with young star defenseman Lane Hutson, who may not want to commit to staying in Montreal long-term.Last season, there were some surprise risers in the Atlantic Division, but nobody surprised anyone more than the Montreal Canadiens did, qualifying for the Stanley Cup Playoffs during a rebuild, similarly to how the Maple Leafs qualified for a rebuild after selecting Auston Matthews 1st overall in 2016.

The Montreal Canadiens May Be Facing a Troubling Dilemma With Young Star Lane Hutson

A huge reason for Montreal’s success was the play of young offensive defenseman Lane Hutson, whom some in Montreal view as a future Cale Makar type. Unfortunately for the Canadiens, though, there may already be trouble in paradise.According to NHL Insider Frank Seravalli, the 2025 Calder Trophy winner may not have much of an appetite to remain with the Canadiens long-term.

“The Canadiens are more than willing to step up and write a cheque for Lane Hutson to be a Canadien for a long long time; I just don’t know what the Hutson appetite is on that end.”

If Hutson were to become available, I’d imagine there will be 31 other teams lining up with interest, including the Maple Leafs.

While there’s no guarantee that Hutson would want to play in Toronto either, it’s worth noting that he checks a very specific box for the Leafs in that he is a skilled, mobile, offensive defenseman who can quarterback a power play.

Hutson is signed for one more season at a very low $950,000 AAV, but with his ELC coming to an end, another strong season could lead to a lucrative second contract for the U.S. born defenseman, especially if he has another strong season in 2025-26.

It just may not be in Montreal.

Previously on MapleLeafsDaily

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Star Defenseman May Want Out, Leaving Leafs’ Heated Atlantic Division Rival in a Tough Spot

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