Montreal Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson’s new contract has been compared to Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid’s recent extension. Hutson signed an eight-year, $70.8 million contract on Monday. The deal gives him an average salary of $8.85 million per year.
The previous Monday, Connor McDavid signed a two-year extension worth $25 million. He kept his salary at $12.5 million, the same as his previous annual salary. Thus, contrary to rumors, the two players signed a friendly contract at a lower cost.
After Hutson’s contract was signed on Monday, TSN insider Pierre LeBrun said Connor McDavid’s new deal with the Oilers played a role in Hutson’s signing.
“One signing that could have been beneficial is Connor McDavid and his bargain for the Edmonton Oilers,” LeBrun said. (starting at 2:14) “And the thing is, even though it’s apples and oranges, it’s Hutson, an entry-level player. Connor McDavid’s obviously would have been a UFA in a year.”
McDavid could have asked for more, but he wanted to help his team stay competitive. LeBrun said Montreal’s front office used a similar message with Hutson.
“The message that Connor McDavid sent to his team in wanting the Oilers to be as competitive as possible during this window, during this new extension,” said LeBrun. “That was part of the message from Ken Hughes and Jeff Gordon to Lane Hutson about wanting their team to be as competitive as possible in the long term while maybe leaving some money on the table for the Canadiens. And that message obviously got through.”
The Canadiens encouraged Hutson to think about the team’s long-term success. They kept Hutson’s salary below $9 million, which contributes to their future cap hit. Hutson has long-term security and remains an integral part of the team’s core. Last season he had a solid rookie season with 66 points and won the Calder Trophy.
Lane Hutson talked about signing with the Habs
After signing his first big contract, Lane Hutson said he was happy to sign a long-term deal with the Montreal Canadiens. He said it was good for both teams and he wanted to continue working on his game.
“It’s nice to do good things,” Hutson said via NHL.com, “…I’m just happy to be here for a long time.”
Hutson believes the team is poised to become a championship contender.
“I think we’re not far from being a team that can win the Stanley Cup, and not just once,” Hutson said. “I hope we continue to do it.”
Lane Hutson wants to continue to improve and help the team win. He feels lucky to stay in Montreal for many years.
Edited by Ankit Kumar
