As the NHL offseason unfolds, whispers are growing louder in Montreal about a looming announcement that could shape the Canadiens’ future for years to come.

Lane Hutson, the electrifying young defenseman who has already captured the Calder Trophy and the hearts of Habs fans, is heading into the final year of his entry-level contract—and management is eager to lock him up before the season’s drama begins.

But beneath the surface, a fascinating twist is developing that could upend the entire negotiation process. While Hutson’s contract extension seems like a straightforward priority, a parallel storyline is emerging in New Jersey, where Luke Hughes—another rising American defensive star—is embroiled in his own contract saga.

The outcome of Hughes’ deal with the Devils could send shockwaves through the league and directly influence what happens next in Montreal.

Why are Hutson’s future and Hughes’ payday suddenly so intertwined? What are Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton weighing behind closed doors, and how might the Devils’ decisions impact the Canadiens’ blue line for years to come? The answers are more surprising than you might think, and they could redefine the landscape for two of hockey’s brightest young talents.

Photo of Luke Hughes and Lane Hutson

Photo credit: NHL

There are more and more rumors that the Montreal Canadiens will be making an announcement regarding a contract extension for Lane Hutson.

Even though the young American defenseman will be entering the final year of his entry-level contract in 2025-2026, Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton would like to get this deal done so it doesn’t become a distraction during the upcoming season.

However, the next contract of the Calder Trophy winner could depend on what happens with another young star defenseman in the National Hockey League.

As reported by the site HABSolumentFan, young defenseman Luke Hughes of the New Jersey Devils is looking for a new deal, and even though his entry-level contract has now expired, the stalemate continues between the Devils organization and Jack and Quinn’s younger brother.

General manager Tom Fitzgerald will try to reach an agreement with his young blueliner in the coming weeks, and this could have an impact on what’s next for Lane Hutson.

“I talked to his agent (Tuesday). We said, ‘Let’s enjoy the holiday weekend and we’ll start talking after,’” Fitzgerald said.

“He’s excited. He wants to be a Devil long term-just like his brother (Jack). We’re excited about that.”

“Players want to stay here. They want to be in New Jersey. They want to be part of something we’re creating. The standards are getting higher with each year, which is exciting. I don’t sense anything other than Luke wants to be a Devil for a long time.”

– Tom Fitzgerald

Luke Hughes’ contract will change everything for Lane Hutson with the Montreal Canadiens

The two young American defensemen are both seen as future stars in the making and, despite some differences, it’s fair to say they represent the future of their respective organizations on defense.

In his first two full seasons in New Jersey, Luke Hughes put up 47 and 44 points, and with numbers like that, one can expect he’ll be able to secure a significant payday.

Last season, the 21-year-old defenseman collected 66 points in 82 regular season games, along with 5 points in 5 NHL playoff games.