Lane Hutson’sbeanpot Appearances: A Tale of Camaraderie and Support
While many NHL players chose to use the 4 Nations Face-Off break to escape to warmer climes, Montreal Canadiens rookie Lane Hutson took a different path. Instead of flying south to escape the cold, Hutson headed just a bit south to Boston. There, he attended the Beanpot tournament, a prestigious annual ice hockey competition among four of Boston’s top universities: Boston University, Boston College, Northeastern University, and Harvard University. Hutson’s presence at the tournament was not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it was a heartfelt show of support for his alma mater, Boston University (BU).
A Rivalry Turned Comradery
Lane Hutson wasn’t alone in his journey to Boston. San Jose Sharks rookie Macklin Celebrini, who is also in the running for the Calder Trophy, joined him. The two players, though now rivals in the NHL, were once teammates at BU in the NCAA. Their bond, forged on the ice at BU, remained strong as they hyped up the BU players in the dressing room. Their presence and encouragement were a significant morale booster for the team. Hutson and Celebrini’s camaraderie and support were evident, as they both actively engaged with the BU players, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose.
BU’s Beanpot Victory
The BU Terriers, inspired by the presence and encouragement of Hutson and Celebrini, put on a stellar performance in the Beanpot tournament. They faced off against Jacob Fowler’s Boston College in the final and emerged victorious with a 4-1 win. This victory was a testament to the team’s spirit and the positive influence of their former teammates. It was a moment of pride for Hutson and Celebrini, who had not only supported their alma mater but also played a part in boosting the team’s confidence.
Practicing with Former Teammates
Hutson’s commitment to his roots didn’t end with the Beanpot victory. The very next day, he put on his gear and joined his former BU teammates for practice. This gesture was a clear indication of his dedication to his former team and his deep connection to his roots. Practicing with his alma mater’s team allowed Hutson to stay connected to his roots and maintain the friendships and bonds he formed during his college years. It was a humanizing moment, showing that even at the highest levels of professional hockey, the bonds of friendship and loyalty remain strong.
Looking Ahead to the Rest of the Season
When the Canadiens return from the break, they will have 26 games left to play. For Hutson, these 26 games present a golden opportunity to pad up his points total. Currently, he has 41 points in 56 games, putting him on pace to reach 60 points by the end of the season. This is a significant milestone, especially considering that Chris Chelios holds the record for most points in a rookie season by a Canadiens’ defenseman with 64 points. Hutson’s performance has been impressive, and he has steadily improved his game throughout the season. However, it’s important to note that at the start of the season, he wasn’t receiving as much ice time and wasn’t on the first power play unit. As he continues to grow and gain confidence, there is a real possibility that he could surpass the 60-point mark and challenge Chelios’s record.
The Calder Trophy Race
Hutson is currently one point ahead of Celebrini in the rookie scoring race, making this a closely contested battle. Both players are among the front-runners for the Calder Trophy, which is awarded to the NHL’s top rookie. The competition is fierce, with Calgary Flames goaltender Dustin Wolf also in the running. The Calder Trophy race adds an extra layer of excitement to the remainder of the season, as fans and analysts alike will be closely watching the performances of these young stars. For Hutson, the next 26 games will be crucial not only for his point total but also for his chances of winning the highly coveted Calder Trophy.
Hutson’s journey from Boston University to the NHL has been marked by dedication, hard work, and a strong sense of community. His actions during the Beanpot tournament and his practice with his former teammates showcase his character and the values that have brought him this far. As the Canadiens gear up for the final stretch of the season, fans can look forward to seeing more of the dynamic play and leadership that Hutson brings to the ice.
