P.K. Subban Heaps Praise on Canadiens Defenceman Lane Hutson as Norris Trophy Contender
Former Montreal Canadiens rearguard and current ESPN analyst P.K. Subban has made a bold declaration about current Habs defenceman Lane Hutson, calling him an elite player with a legitimate chance to win the Norris Trophy as the NHL's best defenceman. Subban's comments came after Hutson's impressive performance in a recent victory over the Minnesota Wild.
Subban's Strong Endorsement
In a video posted to his social media account, Subban expressed his admiration for Hutson's comprehensive impact on the game. "I'm watching this guy play and the way he impacts a game. He impacts it in all facets," Subban stated emphatically. "Offensively, defensively, with his competitiveness, his drive. This kid's all in."
Subban went even further with his praise, suggesting that anyone who doubts Hutson's Norris Trophy potential "is absolutely nuts and doesn't know what they're talking about." He emphasized that the Canadiens are not the same team without Hutson on the ice, calling that the true definition of a Norris Trophy-winning defenceman.
Hutson's Response to the Praise
After learning about Subban's comments during practice in Brossard, Hutson expressed his appreciation for the recognition from such a respected former player. "I mean it's really cool for me when I get noticed — especially by P.K., who was such a dominant player," Hutson said. "I just play and try my best all the time."
The young defenceman demonstrated remarkable perspective when discussing his personal goals, shifting focus from individual awards to team success. "I think the goal is to win a Stanley Cup. I just want to help any way I can," he explained. "I'm not too concerned about awards. How are we going to win a Cup? And how are we hopefully going to do it again and again?"
Impressive Statistical Performance
Hutson's on-ice performance this season provides substantial evidence to support Subban's enthusiastic assessment:
- Nine goals and 52 points through recent games
- A plus-18 goal differential rating
- Already exceeding his rookie season goal total of six
- On pace to surpass last season's 66-point performance
The 21-year-old defenceman acknowledges that his game continues to evolve, noting specific areas of improvement including his shooting accuracy and defensive positioning. Despite occasionally getting caught up ice while taking offensive chances, Hutson's exceptional speed and puck-handling skills typically allow him to recover effectively.
Team Context and Future Outlook
Hutson's development occurs alongside the continued emergence of Russian forward Ivan Demidov, who leads all NHL rookies with 43 points this season. This combination of young talent creates the possibility that the Canadiens could produce consecutive Calder Trophy winners, though head coach Martin St. Louis maintains perspective on individual awards.
"We know what these guys mean to our team," St. Louis commented. "Whether they win these awards or not, it's not going to change how we see them. To win these awards, there's a body of work that has to go with it."
As the Canadiens prepare for upcoming games, including a rematch against the Buffalo Sabres, Hutson's continued development remains a central storyline for the franchise. His combination of statistical production, defensive improvement, and team-first mentality has clearly impressed both former players and current coaching staff, positioning him as one of the NHL's most promising young defencemen.
