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Why comparing Lane Hutson’s contract to Cale Makar’s makes little sense
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- Why comparing Lane Hutson’s contract to Cale Makar’s makes little sense
Lane Hutson 's contract has sparked comparisons with Cale Makar 's new contract, but NHL analyst Marco D'Amico thinks the two deals cannot be judged the same way.
Hutson signed an eight-year, $70.8 million extension with the Montreal Canadiens. The contract carries an $8.85 million average annual value through the 2033-34 season.
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D'Amico explained why the comparison misses the key context. "Lane Hutson was a 10.2(c) RFA with one season under his belt and no recourse to offer sheets or arbitration," he posted on X.
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"His contract is a steal, but comparing it to Cale Makar is just silly," D'Amico added. "Top D in the NHL, with a ring and a Conn Smythe that was 11 months away from UFA status."
Makar recently signed an eight-year, $163.2 million extension with the Colorado Avalanche. His $20.4 million AAV makes him the NHL's highest-paid player.
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The difference reflects much more than production. Makar entered negotiations with six full seasons behind him, two Norris Trophies, a Stanley Cup and the 2022 Conn Smythe Trophy.
Lane Hutson's value comes from Canadiens' timing
NHL: Stanley Cup Playoffs-Montreal Canadiens at Carolina Hurricanes
Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson (48) skates at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
Hutson had only one completed NHL season when Montreal secured his long-term future. His 2025-26 campaign changed that perception, as he recorded 12 goals and 66 assists for 78 points.
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Makar produced 79 points in 75 games during the same season. However, his value comes from sustained elite play and postseason success, not one statistical comparison.
D'Amico reinforced that distinction after a fan preferred Hutson to Makar. " It's two players at different points in their career," he wrote.
"Just like Makar, when Lane reached UFA status, he'll cash in then too," D'Amico continued. "Montreal is just getting the value the Avs have been getting out of Makar the last 6 years."
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That timing explains why Hutson's deal looks so favorable for Montreal. The Canadiens gained eight years of cost certainty before Hutson reached unrestricted free agency.
For Colorado, Makar's extension reflects a different roster decision. The Avalanche are paying a proven franchise defenseman for his prime years and established championship impact.
So, comparing their AAVs without considering contract timing misses the main point. Hutson's deal rewards Montreal for committing early, while Makar's contract pays for a proven elite player entering another stage of his career.
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