What the Puck: Canadiens Need to Re-sign Lane Hutson and Add Toughness
This summer will be crucial for Montreal Canadiens executives Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes. The team has a promising core group—Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovsky, Lane Hutson, and Ivan Demidov—whom fans admired during the playoff series against Washington, particularly after Patrik Laine’s injury.
However, having a strong core is just the beginning. Success in the NHL requires depth and balance, as seen with the Florida Panthers, who excel due to their complete roster—not just star power. Montreal must now build a solid supporting cast around its young talent.
1. Lock in Lane Hutson Long-Term
Hutson, a 21-year-old standout defenceman, is signed through next season, but the Canadiens can extend his contract starting July 1. The smart move would be a long-term deal—ideally eight years at $10 million annually. This avoids the risk of a shorter bridge deal and secures a key piece of the rebuild.
2. Add Size and Grit
Montreal needs to be tougher, especially up front. The team was physically outmatched in the Washington series—Tom Wilson, in particular, dominated physically. Josh Anderson and Arber Xhekaj provided some resistance, but more is needed. Slafkovsky, with his size (6-foot-3, 230 lbs), must develop a more aggressive style. His potential to be a power forward is evident, but he needs to embrace a grittier approach.
Florian Xhekaj, Arber’s younger brother, also shows promise. He brings physical play and scored 24 goals with the Laval Rocket this season, including a highlight-reel goal in the playoffs. Still, the Canadiens will need to acquire at least a couple of physical, hard-hitting forwards from outside the organization.
3. Move On from Patrik Laine
Trading Laine won’t be easy due to his inconsistency, but the Canadiens should make an effort. Although he contributed on the power play, the team’s overall performance in that area declined after his arrival. At even strength, he struggled and negatively impacted his line. Montreal should explore options to move on.
4. Find a Second-Line Centre
Upgrading the second-line centre position is a priority, though challenging. The top free agents, like Sam Bennett, are likely too expensive, and players like Tavares or Crosby are unrealistic targets. Bo Horvat has been mentioned, but his $8.5 million cap hit for six more years may not be worth the investment. Brock Nelson could be a potential fit, though he’s 33. It won’t be easy, but the Canadiens must look for the right fit.
5. Stay the Course, Avoid Rash Decisions
Perhaps most importantly, management should avoid drastic moves. Overpaying for free agents or making splashy trades rarely leads to sustainable success. Instead, they should use some of their numerous draft picks and prospects to carefully add a few experienced players, including a veteran defenceman.
Local fans like Joanne Barrett and Carlos Lehoux believe in the current rebuild, suggesting patience will pay off in a couple of years. As one fan, David Winch, put it: “Go slow, be methodical, and keep expectations in check.”
The message is clear: build wisely and avoid shortcuts.
