On Thursday, Lane Hutson participated in the Hutson Hush Hockey Challenge at the CN Sports Complexe in Brossard. For the event, Hutson faced Canadiens alumni Patrice Brisebois and Paul Byron in a skills competition. The evening raised $25,000 for the Ronald McDonald House.
Hush on contract
The event’s public relations representative advised reporters that Hutson would not answer questions about his contract. The 21-year-old is eligible to sign an extension with the club since July 1st. There has been speculation that discussions between the two camps began but nothing official.
“It’s an amazing city, amazing fanbase, and I’m really fortunate to play here,” Hutson spoke about the city. It is just a matter of time before the two parties reach an agreement. They don’t need to finalize a deal before the season starts.
Snubbed from Olympic camp
While he did not address the elephant in the room about his contract, Hutson spoke publicly for the first time about Team USA not inviting him to their orientation camp.
“There’s some great players who play for USA Hockey and great NHL players go to [camp]. I wish them the best,” he answered when asked to comment on the situation. Considering the country’s management invited 16 other defensemen to this week’s camp, it is highly unlikely Hutson will participate in Olympics regardless of how the season begins. If he does receive the call, he will jump on the opportunity.
Cole Caufield participated in USA’s orientation camp. Meanwhile, Nick Suzuki, Noah Dobson, and Sam Montembeault were in Calgary for Canada’s camp.
Hutson motivated for the season
Hutson had a spectacular rookie season with 66 points in 82 games, earning him the Calder Memorial Trophy. Pressure will be on him to see if he can put up similar numbers this season.
“You always want to get faster, stronger. Not only on the ice, but off the ice too. Understand what works physically for me and working on my shot a little bit,” said Hutson on his focus over the summer.
The Canadiens push into the playoffs and the five-game series versus the Washington Capitals was a valuable experience for the young team.
“Everyone’s really motivated. When you get a taste of playoff hockey, you feel like you’re close. There’s a lot of games to go in playoff hockey. It’s a special feeling and we’re going to do everything we can to get back to that and do better,” said the Holland, Michigan native describing the playoff run. He got five assists in the first round series.
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