Sources: Lane Hutson Closing In On Massive $72M Extension — Could Trigger Major Domino Effect Across the League
In what could become one of the most significant signings of the NHL offseason, sources tell [Outlet Name] that defenseman Lane Hutson is nearing an eight-year extension worth approximately $72 million with the Montreal Canadiens. The deal, which would carry an average annual value (AAV) of $9 million, is expected to be finalized as early as next month.
The 20-year-old blueliner, who made an immediate impact upon entering the league, has quickly emerged as one of Montreal’s core building blocks for the future. His dynamic offensive skill set, elite skating, and high hockey IQ have earned him comparisons to some of the league’s top defensemen, and the Canadiens appear determined to lock him up for the long haul.
Montreal’s front office has long viewed Hutson as a franchise cornerstone. By securing an eight-year deal now, the Canadiens are betting on his continued development and avoiding what could become an even more expensive negotiation down the road as the salary cap rises.
“Locking up young elite defensemen early has become the smart play for many teams,” one NHL executive told [Outlet Name]. “If you believe in the player — and Montreal clearly does — it’s better to get it done now before the market shifts.”
The reported terms of Hutson’s deal could also have ripple effects across the league. Several young defensemen — including Owen Power (Buffalo), Luke Hughes (New Jersey), and Simon Edvinsson (Detroit) — are expected to command sizable extensions in the near future. Hutson’s AAV may serve as a new benchmark for teams negotiating with their emerging stars.
“This contract has the potential to reset the market for second-contract defensemen coming out of their entry-level deals,” a league source said. “Every young defenseman and their agent will be paying close attention to how this unfolds.”
Cap Implications for Montreal
While the Canadiens still have significant salary cap flexibility, committing $9 million annually to Hutson will require careful roster management moving forward. Montreal is also expected to negotiate new contracts for other key young players in the coming years, including Juraj Slafkovský and Cole Caufield’s next deals when the time arrives.
“Managing the cap will be crucial as their young core matures,” said a cap analyst familiar with the situation. “But if Hutson continues on his current trajectory, this contract could easily become a bargain three or four years down the line.”
For now, both sides appear motivated to finalize the extension before training camp opens in the fall. Hutson’s camp, led by his agent, is reportedly focused on securing full no-movement protection in the later years of the deal — a common feature in contracts for players of his caliber.
If finalized, the extension would make Hutson one of the highest-paid defensemen under 23 years old in league history, solidifying his place as a foundational piece of the Canadiens’ long-term vision.
Stay tuned