USA Hockey has chosen not to include Lane Hutson in the 2026 Winter Olympic orientation camp, a decision that has sparked criticism from <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/hockey/nhl/”>NHL insider Tony Marinaro. Marinaro expressed his disagreement on The Sick Podcast with Brian Wilde, arguing that Hutson’s outstanding 2024-25 rookie season warranted a spot on the team.
Hutson’s performance last season was remarkable, tying an NHL rookie assist record previously set by Larry Murphy in 1981. Marinaro emphasized that Hutson not only matched this milestone but also led the Montreal Canadiens in several key statistical categories, making his exclusion from the Olympic camp puzzling.
Analyst Highlights Hutson’s Outstanding Rookie Achievements
Marinaro pointed out that Hutson finished seventh in overall NHL scoring while tying the record for most assists by a rookie defenseman. He noted,
“(As a selector) You’re going to notice that Lane Hutson finished seventh in scoring,”
and added,
“That Hutson tied an NHL record that was going on since 1981 for most assists by a rookie defenseman, tying the great Larry Murphy.”
Further underscoring Hutson’s impact, Marinaro stated,
“That Lane Hutson had more assists than any player on the Montreal Canadiens during the regular season. That Hutson had the third most amount of points by any player on the Montreal Canadiens during the regular season.”
Beyond scoring, Hutson also ranked highly in advanced defensive metrics. He led the Canadiens in both ice time and points during the regular season, consistently placing in the top ten among NHL defensemen across several advanced statistics. Hutson also ranked 32nd in puck battles won among roughly 250 NHL defensemen, demonstrating his effectiveness on both ends of the ice.
Marinaro expressed deep confusion over the snub, saying,
“I don’t get it, Brian, I don’t get it (how Hutson is not invited). I think Lane Hutson is a top 15 defenseman in the National Hockey League, it’s my opinion. I don’t understand how he can’t be in the top 15 for USA.”
Season and Playoff Performance Underscore Hutson’s Value
During the 2024-25 NHL season, Hutson recorded six goals and 60 assists, totaling 66 points in 82 games, a stat line that highlights his offensive contributions. In the playoffs, he continued to lead Montreal with five points and the most ice time per game, averaging 24 minutes and 50 seconds. Despite his efforts, the Canadiens were eliminated in the first round by the Washington Capitals.
In a contrast to Hutson’s omission, USA Hockey invited his Montreal teammate Cole Caufield to the Olympic orientation camp. The final 25-player U.S. roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics is expected to be announced in January.
Lane Hutson Reflects on Calder Trophy Win and Future Prospects
Following his exceptional rookie campaign, Lane Hutson earned the 2024-25 Calder Trophy, awarded to the NHL’s top rookie. He is the first player from the Canadiens to receive this honor since Ken Dryden won it in 1972, marking a significant milestone for both Hutson and the franchise.
“To win rookie of the year award, I just feel really fortunate,” Hutson said, via NHL.com. “I’m lucky to be part of the Montreal Canadiens and be a part of such a great support system with all my friends and family.”
Despite the current Olympic camp snub, many fans and hockey experts anticipate that Hutson will ultimately represent the United States on the Olympic stage, given his talent and rapid rise in the league. His exclusion from the orientation camp has raised questions about selection criteria and the recognition of rookie defensemen who make an immediate impact.