Team USA revealed its preliminary lineup for the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan, notably excluding Montreal Canadiens defenseman and Calder Trophy winner Lane Hutson. This decision has provoked widespread criticism given Hutson’s remarkable rookie season performance.

Among those selected was Canadiens forward Cole Caufield, yet Hutson, who earned the NHL’s top rookie award this year, did not receive an invitation despite proving his ability to compete at an elite level during his debut season.

Hutson Passed Over for Veterans Despite Superior Stats

The defensemen included ahead of Hutson on the roster were Anaheim Ducks’ Jackson Lacombe, Winnipeg Jets’ Neal Pionk, and Chicago Blackhawks’ Alex Vlasic, all of whom Hutson outperformed this season. With 66 points, including 6 goals and 60 assists, Hutson averaged nearly 23 minutes on ice per game, highlighting his key role.

Hutson dominated the Calder Trophy voting, gathering 1,832 points and joining an exclusive group of five active defensemen to earn the honor, alongside Tyler Myers, Cale Makar, Moritz Seider, and Aaron Ekblad.

Fan Backlash Grows Over Team USA’s Omission of Hutson

Across social media platforms like X, fans voiced frustration and disappointment about Hutson’s absence from the Olympic preliminary roster. The consensus suggests that Team USA underestimated his talent and contribution early in his career.

The final 25-player Olympic roster will be finalized no later than January 11, leaving room for potential changes, though the initial exclusion has already sparked intense debate.

“He Clears Everybody” —Unnamed Fan

The decision to overlook a player of Hutson’s caliber raises questions about the selection process and the criteria used by Team USA, especially as the Milan Games approach and expectations grow for a strong American showing.