Overview

• Elliotte Friedman reports Montreal and Hutson are deep in talks and "at the 5-yard line" on a long-term deal likely near an eight-year term at roughly $9 million per season.
• Market context was set last week as the Devils signed Luke Hughes for seven years at a $9 million AAV and the Ducks extended Jackson LaCombe for eight years at the same figure.
• Hutson, 21, is entering the final season of his entry-level contract after a Calder-winning rookie year with 66 points in 82 games.
• Because Hutson is a 10.2(c) restricted free agent, he cannot receive offer sheets or elect arbitration, leaving limited formal leverage beyond withholding camp attendance if still unsigned next year.
• Analysts note Montreal can use signing bonuses and retirement compensation tools to boost Hutson’s take-home pay while keeping the cap hit near the $9 million benchmark, with a pre-season agreement possible but not mandatory.