Lane Hutson has been touted as one of the best players of the Montreal Canadiens in recent history. Serge Savard has heaped exceptional praise on Hutson. When he compares Hutson to Guy Lafleur, calling him “probably the most talented player the Canadiens have had since Guy Lafleur,” fans listen.
But this praise comes at a complicated time for the 21-year-old defenseman, whose Olympic snub has created waves far beyond the ice.
Why Has Lane Hutson’s Olympic Exclusion Created Such Controversy?
Hutson already spends over 22 minutes on ice per game and has accumulated 68 points in 84 regular-season games. The defenseman represents an indelible element of the Canadiens’ rebuilding project, making his absence from Team USA’s Olympic consideration all the more surprising.
However, the real controversy emerged when Hutson’s father, Rob, voiced his frustration publicly. After Lane’s name wasn’t among the 44 players selected to attend the camp in Plymouth, Michigan, Rob Hutson was far from happy. The father went so far as to suggest his son could represent Canada in the future, citing the family’s dual citizenship. “You never know what happens in the future. My boys are also Canadian,” he said on the Recrutes Habscast.
What Did Keith Yandle Say About Rob Hutson’s Comments?
The issue attracted attention across hockey circles, including from former Florida Panthers defenseman Keith Yandle. During his recent appearance on the “Spittin’ Chiclets” podcast, Yandle delivered a scathing critique of Rob Hutson’s public comments.
While acknowledging that Hutson is a gifted player, Yandle minced no words about the father’s approach. “I don’t know him. I know his kid’s a great hockey player, and I like the way his kids play, but he’s got to keep his mouth shut, stay out of whatever his son’s doing,” Yandle shared on the podcast.
The former defenseman drew a parallel to everyday life, questioning whether Rob would call his son’s workplace to demand a raise. According to Yandle, parents have boundaries in the hockey world that shouldn’t be crossed. “There is a certain place in the hockey world for a dad, and it’s not to be talking about the GM of a United States hockey team or any team.”
How Could Rob Hutson’s Comments Impact Lane’s Future Opportunities?
Yandle’s most serious concern centers on potential long-term consequences for Lane’s career. The former NHL veteran believes Rob’s harsh words could backfire, particularly with Team USA general manager Bill Guerin.
“Watch your kid be happy. Have the best time of your life for the next 20 years watching your kids snap it around the NHL. There is zero place that he should be talking about who should be on the team,” Yandle stated.
The warning became more direct when Yandle suggested that Rob’s actions might actually hurt his son’s chances. “The only thing you’re doing is hurting your kid, and whatever you can say, it just deep down inside, he needs to know that that is not the right way to handle things. If I was Bill Guerin, I’d be like, Hey, you were on like the list that you might make the team, but now you’re off it. Like, there is 0% chance I would have that kid.”
Despite this controversy, Hutson has a long and illustrious career ahead of him. The noise surrounding his Olympic team exclusion will likely subside when the 2025-26 season begins, allowing the defenseman to showcase his undeniable prowess on ice again for the Canadiens community.