Lane Hutson of the Montreal Canadiens continues to shine in his rookie season, recently being named the NHL's Rookie of the Month for March 2025. This marks the second time Hutson has received this honor this season, showcasing his exceptional performance on the ice. The 20-year-old defenseman has registered an impressive 15 points in just 14 games, further solidifying his position as a key player in the Canadiens' push for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
Hutson's recent accolades come as the Canadiens find themselves in a heated race with the New York Rangers and Columbus Blue Jackets for the final playoff position. The young blueliner's contributions have been pivotal, as he leads all rookies in assists and points, amassing a total of 62 points through 74 games. His scoring tally includes five goals and a remarkable 57 assists, which not only leads all rookies but also sets a new franchise record for most assists by a rookie defenseman, surpassing Hall of Famer Chris Chelios.
In a standout moment during a recent game against the Florida Panthers, Hutson recorded his 60th point of the season with an assist on Josh Anderson's opening goal. This achievement makes him only the 10th rookie defenseman in NHL history to reach the 60-point mark in a season, joining an elite group that includes legends like Ray Bourque and Nicklas Lidstrom. Hutson is also the first defenseman to hit this milestone in the 21st century, a testament to his skill and composure on the ice.
As Hutson continues to impress, he is not just competing for individual honors but also making a significant impact on the Canadiens' playoff aspirations. With eight games remaining in the regular season, he has the opportunity to further increase his point total and solidify his case for the Calder Trophy, awarded to the league's top rookie. Currently, he is in a tight race with San Jose Sharks forward Macklin Celebrini and Calgary Flames goaltender Dustin Wolf, both of whom are also strong contenders for the prestigious award.
Historically, the Calder Trophy has often favored forwards, with a general consensus suggesting that a rookie forward needs at least 60 points to secure the trophy, while defensemen are typically expected to reach around 40 points. Hutson's current scoring pace, projected to yield approximately 67 points by season's end, puts him in a favorable position to challenge Celebrini for the award. The Canadiens' rookie has already surpassed notable rookie seasons from defensemen like Quinn Hughes and Cale Makar, both of whom had impressive debut years.
Hutson's rise in the NHL has drawn comparisons to former Canadiens superstar P.K. Subban, who electrified fans during his tenure with the team. The Canadiens selected Hutson in the second round of the 2022 NHL Draft, and he has quickly become a cornerstone of the franchise's future. His ability to contribute offensively while also being a reliable defender has made him a fan favorite and a vital part of the Canadiens' lineup.
Despite the pressure of competing for the Calder Trophy and helping his team secure a playoff berth, Hutson has remained focused and determined. "I just try to play my game and help the team win, whether it’s getting points or making defensive plays," he said after a recent game. His humble approach and team-first mentality have endeared him to both fans and his teammates alike.
The competition for the Calder Trophy is heating up as the regular season winds down. Hutson, Michkov, and Wolf each bring unique strengths to the table, making it a fascinating race to watch. Hutson's offensive output, combined with his defensive prowess, could be the deciding factor in his favor as voters consider the impact of each candidate on their respective teams.
As the Canadiens continue to battle for a playoff spot, Hutson's performance will be crucial in determining their fate. His ability to step up in key moments, as evidenced by his game-tying assists and contributions in overtime, highlights his readiness to take on the challenges of the NHL. With the playoffs on the horizon, fans are eager to see how Hutson's rookie campaign unfolds and whether he can lead the Canadiens back to postseason glory.
In summary, Lane Hutson's rookie season has been nothing short of spectacular. With his recent achievements, including being named Rookie of the Month and hitting the 60-point milestone, he has established himself as a top contender for the Calder Trophy. As the Canadiens fight for a playoff berth, Hutson's contributions will undoubtedly be pivotal in their quest for success.
