Assistant Captain: 'Hutson would be my choice'

Indeed, as explained in his recent article where he answers fans' questions, Cowan states loud and clear that Hutson would be his choice because of his talent and his quiet, composed leadership style.

Hutson will begin his eight-year, $8.85 million-per-year contract this season, marking the start of an era filled with high expectations for the Canadiens, as the team has never been more talented.

The team's top players are all on long-term contracts with excellent deals, including Hutson, who clearly took significantly less money than he could have in his contract to give the team the best chance of winning.

The Habs' No. 48 will turn 23 on February 14, and he has already established himself as one of the NHL's best defensemen, while also leading the Habs in his own way.

Giving Suzuki the “C” when he was just 23 really paid off, so why not do the same with Hutson for the role of assistant captain?

Of course, some will say that Hutson isn't vocal enough and that he seems too shy or reserved, but at the same time, it's through his performance on the ice that he leads the team.

We remember very well during the playoffs against the Tampa Bay Lightning when he told his teammates before overtime in Game 3 that he was going to score the game-winning goal.

You know how that turned out.

In short, I think he's a very good choice, even though it would be a bold move to give him the “A” over guys like Josh Anderson or Cole Caufield.

Cowan adds, however, that if the leadership group consisting of Suzuki, Matheson, and Hutson were to become too low-key and not vocal enough, Caufield would be his next choice.

In a Nutshell

– Let's hope so.

– Great start in Italy.

– Our condolences.