Larry Robinson, a Hall of Famer, is showing support for Lane Hutson as the young defenceman aims to break Robinson’s long-standing record for most assists by a Canadiens defenceman in a single season. With just three games left in the current season, Hutson has already achieved 63 assists.
Hutson’s Pursuit of Hockey Greatness
Robinson holds the record with 66 assists set during the 1976-77 season, a year when he also recorded the most points by a Canadiens defenceman: 85 points, including 19 goals. At that time, the Canadiens had an impressive record of 60 wins, 8 losses, and 12 ties, ultimately winning their second of four consecutive Stanley Cups.
Robinson’s Optimism
- Robinson, now 74 years old, expressed hope that Hutson will break his record.
- “It’s a record I didn’t even remember I had,” Robinson stated, laughing.
- Hutson’s performance includes vital plays, such as a recent assist on Nick Suzuki’s game-tying goal against the Florida Panthers.
Robinson recalls that he did not mostly participate in power plays back in his playing days. Instead, he focused on penalty-killing while his teammate Guy Lapointe led the power play duties.
“I believe Hutson plays a more rounded game now,” Robinson remarked. He emphasized Hutson’s intelligence on the ice, stating that despite being smaller in stature at 5-foot-9 and 162 pounds, Hutson compensates with his smart play. Robinson praised him as “the total package” as long as he remains healthy.
Shared History, Different Eras
When asked if Hutson could have thrived during the rough era of the Canadiens in the 1970s, Robinson was confident. “Good players with those skills can adapt,” he said. “He would have had protection from players like me.”
At just 22, Hutson is part of a new generation of Canadiens players. His father was born the same year Robinson set the assists and points records. This season, Hutson is making history, potentially joining Cole Caufield, who scored his 50th goal, becoming the first Canadiens player to reach that mark since Stéphane Richer in the 1989-90 season.
Encouragement from the Coaching Staff
Head coach Martin St. Louis expressed pride in the achievements of players like Hutson and Caufield. He mentioned enjoying their milestones and the importance of their character off the ice.
Hutson himself acknowledged his gratitude for playing in such a storied franchise. After learning about Robinson’s admiration for potentially being his defence partner, Hutson was pleasantly surprised, saying, “That’s pretty cool.”
Conclusion
With Larry Robinson cheering on Lane Hutson, fans are eager to see if the young defenceman can indeed surpass Robinson’s historic record. The legacy of the Canadiens continues to thrive through talented individuals like Hutson.
