Something truly remarkable just happened in the world of hockey, and Montreal Canadiens fans everywhere are buzzing with excitement—but the details are even more shocking than you might imagine.

As the season heats up and the spotlight falls on the team’s promising young stars, whispers began circulating about a major, last-minute move from Canadiens management. The rumors reached a fever pitch in Toronto, where anticipation was already high ahead of the clash with the Maple Leafs.

At the center of this unfolding drama is Lane Hutson, the electrifying defenseman whose rookie campaign shattered records and captured the hearts of fans across the league. With every shift on the ice, Hutson has proven himself to be a generational talent—one whose future in Montreal seemed destined, but not without uncertainty. Speculation swirled about contract negotiations, salary demands, and the team’s long-term plans.

Now, after weeks of suspense, a blockbuster announcement has dropped. The Canadiens have made an official move that not only secures their future but also sends shockwaves through the entire NHL. What exactly did general manager Kent Hughes pull off? How will this impact the team, the fans, and Hutson himself? Read on for all the jaw-dropping details.

Oct 8, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson (48) skates during the warmup before a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

The Montreal Canadiens have just made a major last-minute announcement involving young star defensemen Lane Hutson!

It’s official!

Kent Hughes and the Lane Hutson camp have officially agreed on the terms of an 8-year contract.

Eight-year contract extension for Lane Hutson with the Montreal Canadiens

That alone is excellent news.. but there’s more!

Kent Hughes has pulled off another magic trick by keeping Lane Hutson’s annual salary UNDER $9 million per year, something many believed was absolutely impossible!

“Montreal Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes announced on Monday that the team has agreed to terms on an eight-year, $70.8 million contract (2026-27 to 2033-34) with defenseman Lane Hutson. The deal will pay him an average annual salary of $8.85 million.”

– Montreal Canadiens

Yes – $8.85 million per year for Hutson (starting next season)!

What fantastic news for the Montreal Canadiens, what great news for the fans, and what wonderful news for Lane Hutson – who secures his long-term future and can (most importantly) finally focus on hockey.

Lane Hutson delivered a historic rookie season with 66 points (6G, 60A) in 82 games, leading all NHL rookies in points, assists, power-play points, and ice time.

His 66 points set a Canadiens rookie defenseman record, earning him the Calder Trophy, Montreal’s first since Ken Dryden in 1972.

Lane Hutson, 21 years old, has recorded one point in three games this season with an even plus-minus. Now that his contract situation is settled, he can finally focus on hockey again.

More details to come.