NHL Pundit Labels Karlsson’s 92M Deal ‘Mistake’, Recommends Patience Over Hutson’s Contract

Following an impressive rookie season that led to him winning the 2024-25 Calder Trophy, the Montreal Canadiens are reportedly not rushing to secure a long-term deal for 21-year-old defenseman Lane Hutson. NHL insider Stu Cowan advises a cautious approach, despite the rising stock of Hutson, who notched six goals and 60 assists in his debut season.

Explaining the reasoning, Cowan highlights the potential risk of jumping into an 8-year commitment at this early stage. A proposal of eight years at $8 million or $9 million is not insulting, Cowan suggests, considering Hutson’s minimal experience in the NHL.

However, waiting could raise the cost. Should Hutson replicate his rookie performance, a mid-year extension could top $10 million annually. Cowan cautions against the pressure to quickly secure a long-term deal, pointing to the case of Colorado Avalanche’s Cale Makar, who signed a $9 million AAV deal for six years at the age of 23. In contrast, the $92 million, $11.5 million AAV contract of Erik Karlsson is labeled a “mistake” by Cowan.

While patience could be advantageous for the Canadiens, it poses a risk for Hutson as an injury before finalizing a deal could lead to loss of potential earnings. Nevertheless, Cowan believes an agreement between the two parties is plausible.

Hutson’s historic rookie season saw his total assists tie with Larry Murphy for the highest ever by a rookie defenseman. Former Habs legend Serge Savard even equated his talent to that of Guy Lafleur. As negotiations proceed, the challenge for the Montreal Canadiens is to strike a balance between rewarding Hutson’s prodigious talent and staving off unnecessary long-term risk.