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Canadiens Lock In Lane Hutson on Eight-Year, $70.8 Million Extension

The below-market pact, reportedly heavy on signing bonuses, signals roster and leadership stability after new five-year deals for GM Kent Hughes and president Jeff Gorton.

Overview

  • The 21-year-old Calder Trophy winner signed an eight-year extension starting in 2026–27 with an $8.85 million AAV, keeping him under contract through 2033–34.
  • Insider reporting says the deal includes about $55 million in signing bonuses, reflecting a structure Hutson favored to get the agreement finalized without lingering distraction.
  • Hutson’s cap hit comes in below recent young-defenseman comparables such as Noah Dobson ($9.5M AAV) and Luke Hughes and Jackson LaCombe ($9M AAV).
  • Montreal followed the player deal by confirming five-year extensions for Kent Hughes and newly promoted president of hockey operations Jeff Gorton, reinforcing front-office continuity.
  • Through three games this season Hutson has one assist, and teammates and the club highlighted the signing with a celebratory practice moment and a thank-you message to fans.