The NHL offseason is always a breeding ground for heated debates and unexpected revelations, but this week, one ranking has set social media ablaze and left fans buzzing with speculation.

The NHL Network’s latest list of the top 15 defensemen has not only sparked controversy among hockey enthusiasts, but it has also dropped a major clue about the future of one of Montreal’s brightest young stars.

While the usual suspects like Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes dominate the top spots, a surprising omission and a fresh addition to the Montreal Canadiens’ roster have everyone talking.

As fans dissect every name and position on the list, a curious detail has emerged that could have serious implications for Lane Hutson’s next contract negotiations.

Why was Hutson, the reigning Calder Trophy winner, left off the top 20 entirely? And what does the appearance of Noah Dobson—Montreal’s newest defensive acquisition—at number 15 mean for Hutson’s future with the team?

The Canadiens’ management may have just gained a powerful bargaining chip, but Hutson’s determination and rising star status suggest there’s much more to this story.

Could this be the beginning of a contract saga that will keep fans on the edge of their seats? Read on for all the intriguing details.

Montreal Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson

Photo credit: Elite Prospects

NHL Network has just shared a ranking that is far from unanimous, as they reveal the NHL’s top 15 defensemen.

There are a few surprises, and hockey fans have flooded the comments section. Then, a big clue may reveal a lot about the amount of Lane Hutson’s next contract.

A new NHL Network ranking is setting social media ablaze, and you’ll quickly understand why.

First of all, there’s no surprise in seeing Cale Makar take the top spot, and this choice makes perfect sense.

The talented Quinn Hughes comes in 2nd, and the Vancouver Canucks defenseman deserves this position.

Veteran Victor Hedman of the Tampa Bay Lightning is in 3rd place, while Roman Josi is 4th and Miro Heiskanen is 5th. It’s a little further down the list that things get more complicated.

Zach Werenski, star defenseman of the Columbus Blue Jackets, ranks 14th, while Evan Bouchard of the Edmonton Oilers is 9th. Rasmus Dahlin of the Buffalo Sabres is 11th, and Jaccob Slavin of the Carolina Hurricanes is 13th.

According to NHL Network, Gustav Forsling of the Florida Panthers is the 6th-best defenseman in the National Hockey League, ahead of Charlie McAvoy (7th) and Adam Fox (8th).

A major clue for Lane Hutson’s next contract with the Montreal Canadiens, compared to Noah Dobson

The Montreal Canadiens’ new acquisition, Noah Dobson, ranks 15th on the list of the league’s top defensemen.

Lane Hutson, who just won the Calder Trophy for Rookie of the Year, was left out and is not in this top 20.

At the time of writing, this ranking gives Kent Hughes a solid argument, since Noah Dobson is making a strong impression, and it could therefore be suggested to Hutson’s camp to aim for a contract similar to that of his new teammate.

However, Lane Hutson seems intent on continuing to impress in 2025-26, and he has more than enough talent to raise the bar much higher in his performances.