Canadiens’ Hutson Contract Talks Shouldn’t Mirror LaCombe‘s Situation
Montreal, QC – As the Montreal Canadiens begin negotiations with burgeoning defenseman Lane Hutson, 21, comparisons to the recent contract extension signed by Ottawa Senators’ defenseman Jackson LaCombe, 24, are proving misleading, according to contract analysis. The differing circumstances surrounding each player – age, arbitration eligibility, and years of potential unrestricted free agency – suggest a significantly different negotiation landscape for the Canadiens.
The situation highlights the complexities of player contracts in the NHL, particularly for young, impactful defensemen.While both LaCombe and Hutson represent promising futures for their respective teams, relying on LaCombe’s seven-year, $63 million deal as a direct benchmark for Hutson’s extension could undervalue the Canadiens’ asset. The key difference lies in the leverage each player possesses, and the cost to the team of securing their long-term services.
LaCombe, having already accrued enough NHL service time, held the advantage of potential salary arbitration and the threat of an offer sheet from other teams – tools unavailable to Hutson at this stage in his career. These are critical bargaining chips for players with compensation, and a strike is generally unfavorable for both sides.
The number of years of unrestricted free agency the team “buys” with a contract extension is also a crucial factor. The Ducks secured six years of potential free agency from LaCombe (2029-2034), anticipating a significantly higher salary cap in the future – potentially reaching $140-150 million. The Canadiens,conversely,only need to purchase three years of free agency with Hutson,within a maximum eight-year contract.
A recent comparable deal is the seven-year, $63 million ($9 million AAV) contract signed by New Jersey Devils defenseman Luke Hughes. Both Hughes and LaCombe where invited to the USA Hockey Olympic orientation camp, while Hutson was notably absent from the invite list.
Hutson’s potential earning power could increase with another dominant NHL season, prompting the Canadiens to proactively secure his future with an average annual value under $10 million. Given General Manager Kent Hughes’ established reputation as a skilled negotiator, the team might potentially be well-positioned to integrate Hutson into their salary structure effectively.
