Islanders Add Veteran Defenseman Ben Hutton on One-Year Deal
The New York Islanders have signed defenseman Ben Hutton to a one-year, one-way NHL contract with a pro-rated $900,000 cap hit for the 2026-27 season. Hutton, 33, previously played five seasons with the Vegas Golden Knights, contributing to their 2023 Stanley Cup victory and appearing in 55 regular-season games during the 2025-26 campaign. The move comes after he failed to make the Ottawa Senators' opening roster following a professional tryout.
The New York Islanders have signed defenseman Ben Hutton to a one-year, one-way NHL contract with a pro-rated cap hit of $900,000 for the 2026-27 season, as confirmed on November 5, 2026. The 33-year-old, a left-handed shooter, previously played five seasons with the Vegas Golden Knights, contributing to their 2023 Stanley Cup championship and appearing in 55 regular-season games during the 2025-26 campaign. His move to the Islanders followed his release by the Ottawa Senators after he failed to make their opening roster despite signing a professional tryout agreement. Hutton was originally drafted by the Vancouver Canucks in the fifth round of the 2012 NHL Draft and has played 575 career NHL games across 11 seasons with five franchises, including stints with the Canucks, Kings, Ducks, Maple Leafs, and Golden Knights. He has recorded 30 goals and 139 points in his career, along with one assist in 10 playoff games, all with Vegas.
Hutton’s signing reflects a strategic move by the Islanders to bolster their depth defense, particularly after recent roster decisions that left gaps on the blue line. His experience as a reliable, stay-at-home defenseman who played key minutes during Vegas’ deep playoff runs makes him a logical fit for a team aiming to maintain consistency in its defensive structure. The Senators’ decision not to retain him underscores the competitive nature of NHL training camps and the high stakes involved in roster construction. While Hutton’s offensive produc
Hutton’s contract could signal a growing trend among NHL teams to rely on experienced, cost-effective veterans during transitional seasons, particularly when cap space is constrained. His $900,000 cap hit represents a low-risk investment for the Islanders, allowing them to add depth without sacrificing flexibility. This move may influence how other franchises approach late-season roster adjustments, especially those with young core players needing mentorship. A comparable case is the 2018 signing of veteran defenseman Jay Bouwmeester by the Florida Panthers, who similarly provided stability while younger players developed. The broader impact lies in how such signings affect player development timelines and team culture—veterans like Hutton may help maintain discipline but could also limit opportunities for younger talent. What to watch for is whether the Islanders use this contract as a stepping stone toward more significant moves, or if they intend to build around established depth. T