The Montreal Canadiens are witnessing the evolution of their top three defensemen into distinct and impactful players, each bringing a unique skillset to the team. Lane Hutson, Noah Dobson, and Mike Matheson form the core of the Canadiens' defensive lineup, showcasing different strengths and styles of play.
Lane Hutson's offensive prowess is undeniable. His statistics speak volumes, with five goals and thirty assists in 37 games. Hutson's approach is not about merely shooting the puck but about finding creative solutions on the ice. With a shooting percentage under eight percent, he demonstrates selectivity and a focus on orchestrating plays. Hutson excels at retrieving pucks, making effective passes, and timing his entries into the offensive zone. His ice time, exceeding 23 minutes per game, reflects the coaching staff's trust in his abilities. Hutson's contributions on the power play further solidify his role as a key player in shaping the team's offensive strategy. In his rookie season of 2024-2025, Hutson recorded 66 points and was awarded the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's best rookie. In June 2025, he was also named to the All-Rookie Team and received votes for the James Norris Memorial Trophy. By December 20, he registered his 100th career point in a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Noah Dobson brings a composed and structured approach to the Canadiens' defense. Acquired in the offseason, Dobson's focus is on stability and calculated offense. While his numbers may not be as flashy as Hutson's, his value lies in his reliability and ability to make smart plays. Dobson's defensive game is growing, and his offensive contributions are steadily increasing. His ability to control the game's pace is a valuable asset to the team. Dobson's contract reflects the team's belief in his potential and the value he brings to the Canadiens.
Mike Matheson is a dynamic player who contributes significantly to the Canadiens' transition game. Matheson's offensive capabilities have not diminished, and his skating ability allows him to excel in various situations. Despite being over 30 years old, he consistently plays more than 25 minutes per game, demonstrating his importance to the team. Matheson's experience and versatility make him a key player in the Canadiens' lineup.
The Canadiens have also signed defenseman Bryce Pickford to a three-year entry-level contract starting in the 2026-2027 season. Pickford, known for his offensive skills and leadership as captain of the Medicine Hat Tigers, was drafted by the Canadiens in the third round of the 2025 NHL Draft. His progress will be closely monitored as he develops within the organization.
With Hutson, Dobson, and Matheson leading the way, the Canadiens' defense is evolving into a well-rounded unit with a mix of offensive talent, defensive stability, and transitional skill.
