Photo credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images

Lane Hutson is rewriting the Montreal Canadiens’ record book for a rookie defenseman.

By picking up three assists last Tuesday against the Florida Panthers, the Canadiens’ 2022 second-round pick surpassed Chris Chelios in Habs history for the most assists by a rookie in a single season with 57.

“Lane Hutson recorded his fourth three-point game, setting a franchise record for most assists in a season by a rookie (57) and surpassing three players on the NHL list for most points in a season by a rookie defenseman.”

On top of that, the small American blueliner became the first rookie defenseman to hit the 60-point mark since the 1991-1992 season, when a certain Niklas Lidstrom tallied exactly 60 points in 80 games with the Detroit Red Wings.

That said, there’s now no doubt about Lane Hutson’s exceptional talent, and for many experts, he’s the heavy favorite to take home the Calder Trophy.

A clear directive for Lane Hutson

He’s also playing his first full 82-game season, and the organization sent him a very clear message regarding the fact that he’s always on the ice and never takes a day off.

Lane Hutson told me this morning that he doesn’t receive any instructions from his bosses regarding his constant desire to be on the ice, even on off days.

The only thing they tell me is: “Do what you want, but be ready for the games!”

So far, he’s been ready for the games.

– Lane Hutson

The message is clear!

This shows the level of confidence Kent Hughes and Martin St. Louis have in the young defenseman, who is on track to become one of the best in the NHL.

At the time of writing, Lane Hutson ranks not only first among rookie scorers but fourth among all defensemen.

He’s even ahead of stars like Victor Hedman, Evan Bouchard, Josh Morrissey, and Rasmus Dahlin.