Cale Makar Praises Lane Hutson’s Rise Among NHL’s Elite Defensemen
It’s not every day that a rookie defenseman captures the attention of three of the NHL’s biggest names, but that’s exactly what Lane Hutson has managed to do. The young Montreal Canadiens star, who’s already posted nine points in his first ten games this season, has drawn praise from none other than Cale Makar, Quinn Hughes, and Zach Werenski — three players widely recognized as among the league’s best on the blue line.
Cale Makar, the Colorado Avalanche’s Norris Trophy-winning defenseman, was particularly impressed by what he’s seen from Hutson so far. Speaking about the young American, Makar said it was “pretty amazing” how Hutson had been able to step into the league and make such an immediate impact. He emphasized that producing offensively and helping the team as a rookie isn’t easy, yet Hutson has done both with impressive consistency. Makar added that the young defender has “another aspect to his game that people haven’t seen yet,” suggesting that Hutson’s full potential is still waiting to be unlocked. Coming from someone like Makar — who set a new standard for offensive defensemen — that’s high praise.
Also Read:- Jaime Jaquez Jr. Ignites the Heat with Confidence and Fire
- Kawhi Leonard Leads Clippers Past Trail Blazers Amid Billups’ Scandal
Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes echoed similar sentiments, even drawing comparisons between himself and Hutson. Hughes, who’s known for his elite skating and poise with the puck, noted that the Canadiens’ young blueliner reminds him of his own early years in the NHL. He also offered a bit of veteran wisdom, acknowledging that the road ahead won’t always be smooth, but expressing confidence that Hutson has the right mindset to handle the challenges of playing in a demanding hockey market like Montreal. “He’s got a lot of passion,” Hughes said, adding that Hutson’s constant drive to improve will make him an exciting player to watch for years to come.
Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets also joined in on the admiration, highlighting what Hutson means for the next generation of American hockey players. Werenski said he had followed Hutson’s breakout 60-plus point rookie season closely, praising his creativity and confidence on the ice. “When you play against him, it’s hard not to notice him,” Werenski admitted. “He’s so gifted. I think it’s great for USA Hockey.”
After recording 66 points in his first full NHL season, Lane Hutson is quickly establishing himself among the league’s elite defensemen — and clearly, the stars have taken notice. When players like Makar, Hughes, and Werenski all recognize your talent this early, it’s a sign that something special is happening. If Hutson keeps up this pace, it’s only a matter of time before his name starts appearing in serious Norris Trophy conversations — maybe even sooner than most expect.
Read More:
0 Comments