Montreal Canadiens fans are still reeling from Team USA’s controversial decision to leave Lane Hutson off their initial Olympic camp roster—a move that has sent shockwaves through both the NHL and the Hutson camp.

While many struggle to make sense of Bill Guerin’s choice, the real story may be only just beginning. Behind the scenes, this surprising snub has created a ripple effect that now places Canadiens GM Kent Hughes in an unexpectedly precarious position as he navigates the high-stakes world of NHL contract negotiations.

With Hutson’s undeniable talent and history of proving doubters wrong, the young defenseman is poised to enter the new season with even more fire in his game.

But will this added motivation translate into a breakout campaign that forces Montreal’s hand? Or will lingering doubts about his size and long-term potential push the Canadiens to take a more cautious approach?

The pressure is mounting, and the next move could define the future of both Lane Hutson and the Montreal blue line. What will Kent Hughes do, and how will this saga unfold? The answer is anything but clear—and fans won’t want to miss what happens next.

Montreal Canadiens GM Kent Hughes (left) Defenseman Lane Hutson

Photo credit: All Habs/NHL

Although most fans struggle to understand Bill Guerin and Team USA’s decision, it reflects a sad reality for Lane Hutson.

Unfortunately many experts still doubt his true value because of his size.

The non-selection of Lane Hutson at Team USA’s first camp ahead of the Olympic Games puts Kent Hughes in a delicate situation regarding contract negotiations with Lane Hutson.

Let’s be honest, if Lane Hutson were 2.5 inches taller, he would probably already be a “lock” on the American roster.

But that is not the case, and doubts remain in the minds of NHL general managers about the young defenseman’s ability to be reliable in his own end. It must be said that in the past, smaller defensemen like Will Butcher and Shayne Gostisbehere suffered serious drop-offs after an offensively impressive rookie season.

Kent Hughes must quickly make a decision regarding Lane Hutson’s contract

Marco D’Amico reported this morning that Lane Hutson’s camp was stung by Bill Guerin’s decision not to invite him to Team USA’s camp.

Difficult news for the Lane Hutson and his camp, but extra motivation for him!

This means the young man will start the season hungrier than ever, and considering his history of silencing critics, we can assume Lane Hutson will have an even more impressive season than his rookie year.

With the salary cap set to rise drastically in the coming years, the risk of the young defenseman skyrocketing his value this season is very real.

Kent Hughes will therefore have to decide which risk he is more comfortable taking: handing Hutson a lucrative deal right now after just one season, or waiting for a second full season that could confirm he truly belongs among the elite on the blue line.

Let’s remember that Elliotte Friedman recently stated Hutson would be seeking a deal similar to Dobson’s.

“Lane Hutson, at first, the Canadiens likely wanted to give him less than Nick Suzuki. With Noah Dobson’s signing, if Lane Hutson wants a long-term contract, it will likely resemble Dobson’s.”

-Elliotte Friedman