Carter Hutton breaks down what NHL preseason is like for players
Former NHL goaltender Carter Hutton described how preseason priorities shift over a career. Early in his career, he felt pressure to perform for a roster spot; later, he focused on routines such as naps, meals, and game-time preparation. Hutton said veterans use exhibition games to regain rhythm, while younger players may try to impress coaches before AHL assignments.
Carter Hutton, a former NHL goaltender, discussed preseason on Daily Faceoff LIVE with Tyler Yaremchuk. He contrasted his first Nashville training camp, when he felt intense pressure to earn a role and perform in limited appearances, with later years when contract security let him focus on personal routines.
Hutton said established players use exhibition games to rebuild rhythm, including sleep, meals, travel timing, and preparing for evening starts after summer training. Younger players, he added, may still try to catch coaches’ attention before possible AHL assignments. Yaremchuk also noted fans and analysts often lose interest once AHL-heavy lineups appear.
This story may help fans and media better understand why preseason performances can look uneven and why roster decisions are not solely based on exhibition results. It could affect how prospects are judged, how veterans’ preparation is perceived, and how audiences engage with early games. Coaches and AHL hopefuls may also benefit from clearer expectations, though the broader societal impact is likely limited to sports culture and fan discourse.