After Locking Up Lane Hutson, the Montreal Canadiens Have a Bigger Priority: Mike Matheson

0 Diana khan October 17, 2025

The ink is barely dry on Lane Hutson’s deal, and while the fanbase is rightfully buzzing about the future of the Montreal Canadiens’ power play, Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton are already focused on the next critical move. And frankly, this one is even more important for the team’s immediate future.

The buzz from insiders like Pierre LeBrun is clear: the organization’s number one priority is extending veteran defenseman Mike Matheson.

This isn’t just standard housekeeping. This is about solidifying the entire defensive corps as the next wave of talent, led by Hutson, begins to integrate. At 31, Matheson isn’t just a placeholder; he’s evolved into the Habs’ most reliable, minute-munching blueliner. He’s found a new gear under Martin St. Louis, and his pairing with Noah Dobson has finally given Montreal a legitimate top-two punch.

Why Matheson’s Next Contract is the Key to the Habs’ Rebuild

Think about who is going to shepherd Lane Hutson as he adjusts to the NHL grind. It’s Matheson. He’s the guy logging 25-plus minutes a night against the toughest competition, insulating the younger players. Team leaders, including Nick Suzuki, rave about his play and professionalism. Losing that presence as he hits UFA status next summer would be a massive step backward, forcing players like Hutson and Kaiden Guhle into roles they aren’t ready for.

The sticking point, as LeBrun notes, will be the term. Matheson isn’t looking for a short-term patch; he wants security. A four or five-year deal, as speculated, feels right. It bridges the gap perfectly, keeping him as the veteran leader until the next wave (Hutson, Reinbacher, Guhle) is fully established.

As for the AAV? His current $4.875 million cap hit is one of the best bargains in the league. A raise to the $6.5 to $7 million range is not just deserved; it’s the cost of doing business. The Canadiens have the cap space, and this is the right player to spend it on. Securing Hutson was about the future; re-signing Mike Matheson is about making sure that future has a foundation to build on.