Photo credit: Reddit

Legendary Hall of Fame defenseman Ray Bourque had a striking compliment for Montreal Canadiens rookie defenseman Lane Hutson, a top Calder contender.

Despite his rookie status, Montreal Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson has already made quite a name for himself during his 1st year in the NHL.

He’s already hit 65 points this year, which beats the record by Hall of Famer and ex-Habs defenseman Chris Chelios for most points by a Canadiens rookie defenseman. Speaking of Chelios, Hutson also bested his record of 56 assists by a rookie defenseman; he now has 58.

Not only has Hutson caught the attention of the NHL and hockey fans everywhere, but he’s also firmly put himself into consideration for the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL’s best rookie for 2024-25.

He’s also caught the attention of Hall of Fame defenseman Ray Bourque, who had quite a compliment for him:

I’ve never seen anyone move the puck like him.

Huston was taken by the Habs with the 62nd overall pick in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft.

Hutson himself has already fallen in love with Montreal and Habs fans, saying the city has completely surpassed his expectations:

Honestly, this city has surpassed my expectations. I didn’t really know what to expect, I guess. I’ve been to lot of Blackhawks games, I’ve been in that atmosphere when they were winning their Stanley Cups (in 2013 and 2015). But I think here it’s just another level.

Hutson and the Canadiens can clinch a playoff spot if they pick up a point tonight against the Carolina Hurricanes.