Hutson Brothers to Meet in NHL for First Time as Canadiens Face Capitals
Lane and Cole Hutson will play against each other in an NHL game for the first time Wednesday night. The Canadiens visit the Capitals in a matchup Montreal is calling the Hutson Bowl. Lane, a Calder Trophy winner, and Cole, a Washington rookie defenseman, have never faced off at any level.
Lane Hutson, 22, won the 2024-25 Calder Trophy, while Cole Hutson, 20, is a Washington rookie defenseman. The brothers have never faced each other at any level. Their father, Rob, runs a hockey academy in Barrington, Illinois, and has described a competitive streak among all four brothers, including physical summer battles.
Their styles contrast: Cole shoots more and plays a more physical game, while Lane relies on his stick and hockey sense. Lane is 5-foot-9 and 162 pounds; Cole is 6-foot and 180. Through five games, Lane has four assists and a goal against Buffalo, while Cole has one goal and two assists. Washington’s TJ Oshie has praised Cole. The teams meet again Jan. 19 and Feb. 13.
This sibling matchup may draw extra attention from Canadiens and Capitals fans, plus casual viewers who enjoy family storylines. It could raise visibility for rookie defensemen and smaller players, perhaps encouraging young athletes and their families. The “Hutson Bowl” label may give a regular-season game more media appeal, though any broader social impact is likely modest and short-lived.