Sidney Crosby makes his thoughts about Canadiens rookie sensation very clear
Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby has expressed strong admiration for Montreal Canadiens rookie sensation Lane Hutson. Crosby noted that Hutson is not only creative but also adept at finding open space to create scoring opportunities.
"Well first of all there’s his intelligence…he understands the little pockets of space & he has the stickhandling to manage that space, it’s deception. He has great qualities that drive our puck possession," Habs coach Martin St. Louis on Hutson.
Many regard Hutson as one of the most innovative defensive prospects the Canadiens have seen in decades, with some even suggesting that the 20-year-old could break into the top three defensemen this season.
Entering the season with significant hype surrounding him within the Canadiens organization, Lane Hutson has caught the attention of veterans like Sidney Crosby, who had the opportunity to skate with him last summer.
When asked about Hutson, Crosby said (via: HabsOnReddit):
“I skated with him (Lane Hutson) last summer actually. I’ve seen a couple of clips. He looks pretty comfortable. He’s a great skater, holds onto the puck, makes so many plays. He looks like he’s really confident out there…he looks really good.”
Hutson was drafted No. 62 overall by the Habs in the 2022 NHL draft. He made his debut during a 5-4 overtime loss to the Detroit Red Wings in April. This season, Hutson has accumulated four points through as many assists in three games.
Hutson and the Canadiens will be up against Sidney Crosby's Pittsburgh Penguins on Monday. The puck drops at 7:30 p.m. ET.
Auston Matthews praises Sidney Crosby
Toronto Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews recently heaped praise on Sidney Crosby, describing him as a formidable opponent on the ice.
The Leafs captain acknowledged the challenge Crosby presents, emphasizing the impressive nature of his career achievements, particularly his consistency even in his 20th year in the league.
"He’s always a tough guy to play against. It’s always a really good challenge. Like I’ve said before, what he’s been able to do over the course of his career is pretty incredible. His consistency continues to be impressive, even in year 20.
"He’s one of the top players and someone we have to look out for on the ice; he’s very dangerous, so it’s a fun challenge."
Crosby has accumulated three points in as many games for the Penguins (1-2-0), who are fifth in the Metro Division.