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Canadiens' Lane Hutson Could Copy Auston Matthews' Maple Leafs Move

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Jul 27, 2025 8:50 AM ET

After a Calder Trophy-winning rookie season, Montreal Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson is at the center of speculation about his next deal, as he's about to enter his final season under contract.

The speculation, however, doesn't have to do with how much Hutson will earn on his next contract, but how long it will be.

According to NHL analyst Jim Biringer, who discussed the situation on TSN's "Montreal 690" on July 22, the Canadiens defenseman may become the latest player to shift away from signing a traditional long-term deal.

Biringer believes Hutson could follow Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews’ lead by opting for a shorter-term deal to take advantage of the NHL’s projected rising salary cap under the new CBA.

Biringer - Lane Hutson is going to be paid what he is worth https://t.co/Fdl5KYyInt
— TSN 690 Montreal (@TSN690) July 22, 2025

“I think you’re going to see a different trend now, because the new CBA rules next year, right? Max length is seven, and then six years with another team. We’re seeing projections like $113-$120 million salary cap," Biringer said. "I could see young players saying, 'Hey, you know what? Maybe I’ll take three years. Maybe I’ll take four years, and I want to bet on myself again.

“Is that an option for Lane Hutson? Sure, it is. He’s already a really good defenseman in the National Hockey League.”

Back to Matthews, the Leafs captain famously signed a four-year, $53 million deal in 2019 instead of an eight-year, max-term contract, which was something uncommon in the NHL at that point for someone of his talent.

Biringer pointed to stars like Edmonton Oilers' Connor McDavid, Vegas Golden Knights' Jack Eichel, and Minnesota Wild's Kirill Kaprizov as others who may follow Matthews' steps.

Hutson is entering the final year of his entry-level deal, carrying a meager $950,000 cap hit. The rookie posted 66 points last season, including notching 60 assists, on his way to winning the Calder Trophy award.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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