Did the Montreal Canadiens draft the best player in the auction at No. 62 overall in a draft in which they had the first overall pick?
This far-fetched possibility was raised by journalist Eric Engels, who covered the Habs for Sportsnet, who mentioned Lane Hutson.
“I think the best player in the 2022 draft was selected 62nd overall,” Engels said during a recording of “The Sick Podcast With Tony Marinaro.” I think it could become a reality.”
“If successful, Nick Bobrov will have his statue next to those of Rocket, Guy Lafleur and Jean Béliveau,” reacted host Tony Marinaro.
Bobrov, co-director of amateur recruiting with Martin Lapointe, is currently divided among supporters, some of whom criticize him for selecting Juraj Slafkovsky first and David Reinbacher at fifth.
The 19-year-old Hutson is running at incredible pace in the NCAA at Boston University. After collecting 48 points, including 15 goals, in 39 games last season, the small 1.79 meter tall defender is also dominant this year with nine points, including six goals, in seven games.
He had to wait until the 62nd pick before being claimed late in the second round, but Hutson is also only the fourth player drafted by CH during the 2022 auction, following Slafkovsky, Filip Mesar and Owen Beck.