The Montreal Canadiens are facing some unexpected turbulence in their contract talks with rising star defenseman Lane Hutson.
After a standout rookie season that earned him the Calder Trophy, Hutson seemed destined for a long-term deal in Montreal. However, negotiations have reportedly become complicated due to differing opinions within his camp and some quiet concern from within the organization.
What’s Holding Up Lane Hutson’s Long-Term Deal in Montreal?
According to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet, both sides have agreed to move discussions “out of the public eye,” citing the growing media attention around the matter.
“There is concern about how much this has affected Hutson,” Friedman said on Saturday Headlines. “He’s a young man in the NHL trying to make his way, and nobody thinks this is good for him.”
Elliotte Friedman: Re Lane Hutson: There is concern about how much this has affected Hutson; they’re taking this [negotiation] out of the public eye; are they still talking? I believe they are – Saturday Headlines (10/11)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) October 12, 2025
Despite that, talks remain ongoing. Friedman added that communication between Hutson’s representatives and Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes has continued privately, suggesting that both sides are still seeking a solution.
While the Canadiens are eager to secure their young cornerstone, several reports indicate the process hasn’t been smooth. TSN’s Chris Johnston recently noted that Hutson’s father has been directly involved in discussions, allegedly complicating the pace of negotiations.
“It’s not a secret,” Johnston said. “He’s got a dad that’s involved in this negotiation. I can only imagine his father’s looking out what’s best for his kid, what he thinks is best for his kid.”
That added voice, while well-intentioned, has reportedly led to tension over the term of the deal. Montreal prefers a full eight-year contract, while Hutson’s camp is said to favor six.
Both sides are believed to agree on the average annual value, estimated at around $9 million, but the finer structural details, including deferred payments and cap considerations, remain unresolved.
Canadiens Still Confident About Keeping Hutson Long-Term
Despite the complications, Montreal’s front office appears calm. Hughes has stated publicly that they will “figure it out one way or another” and reiterated that Hutson remains part of the team’s long-term plans.
Sources also suggest the team’s use of Canada’s Retirement Compensation Arrangement (RCA), a tool for spreading payments, has raised questions from Hutson’s side. It’s a common structure in high-value contracts, but one that some agents reportedly approach cautiously.
RELATED: Montreal Canadiens Rumors — Lane Hutson Negotiations Getting ‘Messy’
While the situation has drawn plenty of speculation, most insiders believe a deal will eventually get done as both sides reportedly share the same goal of finding a way to make Hutson’s next contract work for the long haul.
Regardless, Montreal and Hutson continue their season on Tuesday, October 14, when the team hosts the Seattle Kraken.
