Lane Hutson is on track to sign a historic contract with the Montreal Canadiens that could make him the highest-paid defenseman in the NHL. According to NHL analyst Tony Marinaro, Hutson’s upcoming deal could surpass the salaries of established stars like Erik Karlsson and Drew Doughty.
Hutson is currently in the final year of his three-year rookie contract, valued at $2.85 million. After an outstanding season where he earned the Calder Trophy as the league’s top rookie, Hutson scored 66 points over 82 games, playing a pivotal role in helping the Canadiens reach the playoffs.
Analysis of Hutson’s Next Contract Value
Discussing Hutson’s potential contract on The Sick Podcast, Tony Marinaro explored what an eight-year extension for the young defenseman might look like. Marinaro emphasized that such a contract would likely set a new benchmark in defenseman salaries across the NHL.
“If Montreal Canadiens fans want to see Lane Hutson sign an eight-year deal, they’re going to have to come to the reality that, yeah, an eight-year deal, he’ll end up being the highest-paid defenseman in the National Hockey League as we speak if he signs it,” Marinaro said.
Marinaro highlighted salaries of current top defensemen to frame Hutson’s expected earnings. Erik Karlsson of the Pittsburgh Penguins earns $11.5 million annually, while Kings’ Drew Doughty and Sabres’ Rasmus Dahlin both make $11 million per year. Meanwhile, Zach Werenski of the Blue Jackets, Charlie McAvoy of the Bruins, and Adam Fox of the Rangers each earn close to $9.5 million yearly.
Based on these figures, Marinaro predicted that an eight-year deal for Hutson could total between $96 million and $100 million, averaging roughly $12 to $12.5 million per season. This would elevate Hutson above all other defensemen in terms of salary.
Lane Hutson Reflects on Winning the Calder Trophy
On Tuesday, Lane Hutson was honored with the Calder Trophy, awarded to the NHL’s best rookie, surpassing finalists Dustin Wolf of the Calgary Flames and Macklin Celebrini from the San Jose Sharks. The award was presented during a dinner in Lake Barrington, Illinois, where Hutson celebrated the achievement with over 50 friends and family members.
“Rookie of the Year award, I just feel really fortunate and lucky to be part of Montreal Canadiens,” Hutson said, “and to be a part of a such great support system with all my friends and family. So, to be able to do what I love every day, it’s been a dream.”
Hutson won convincingly, securing 165 out of 191 first-place votes from the Professional Hockey Writers Association, reflecting widespread recognition of his impact during his rookie season.
What This Means for Hutson and the Canadiens
If Hutson’s contract reaches the projected figures, it would not only set a new salary record for NHL defensemen but also signal the Canadiens’ strong commitment to building their team around his talent. The deal could redefine market standards for young, elite defensemen entering their prime years.
As Hutson prepares for the next phase of his career, the contract negotiations will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, anticipating how this investment will influence the Canadiens’ future performance and Hutson’s role within the league.