Lane Hutson Joins Elite Ranks: Three Defenders Eye 100-Point Season

The NHL has seen only six defensemen achieve the remarkable milestone of scoring 100 points in a single season, with the most recent being Erik Karlsson during the 2022-23 season. Karlsson’s impressive tally of 101 points while playing for the San Jose Sharks marked a significant moment in hockey history, as he became the first defenseman to reach this mark since Brian Leetch in the 1990-91 season. Hockey analysts are now discussing which defensemen could potentially replicate this achievement, and one name has emerged as a strong contender: Lane Hutson.

While Quinn Hughes and Cale Makar have both demonstrated extraordinary offensive capabilities, each finishing a season with 92 points, Hutson is quickly making a name for himself. According to Frank Corrado from TSN, Hutson is one of only three players, alongside Hughes and Makar, who could realistically score 100 points in a future NHL season. Corrado stated, “There are like three guys really. 100 points is a lot, but I wouldn’t put it past him. He just had a 66-point rookie season.”

Hutson’s performance last season was particularly notable as he scored 66 points in 82 games, a remarkable feat for a rookie defenseman. Not only did Hutson achieve this without being part of the first power-play unit from the start, but he also played for a young Montreal Canadiens team that faced significant challenges throughout the season, including the absence of Ivan Demidov for most of the year.

The last time a player from the Canadiens reached the 100-point milestone was Markus Naslund, who recorded 110 points during the 1985-86 season. Given the lengthy gap, the prospect of Hutson achieving this feat adds excitement among fans and analysts alike. Hutson’s inclusion in discussions about potential 100-point defensemen highlights his exceptional offensive talent, setting him apart from traditional expectations for players in his position.

As the NHL evolves, Hutson’s journey is being closely watched. His ability to thrive in a competitive league at such a young age suggests that he may well join the ranks of the few defensemen who have reached this prestigious scoring mark. With the right development and continued support from his team, it is plausible that Hutson could achieve this milestone in the coming years.

In conclusion, as the season unfolds, fans will be eager to see whether Lane Hutson can continue to build on his impressive rookie campaign and potentially etch his name in history alongside some of the NHL’s greatest defensemen. His journey will not only be pivotal for his career but also for the future of the Montreal Canadiens as they look to reclaim their status as a powerhouse in the league.