Hutson Stands Out as Habs-Sabres Series Ties 2-2

Montreal Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson has emerged as a standout performer in the second-round playoff series against the Buffalo Sabres, showcasing relentless energy and skill as the best-of-seven matchup stands tied 2-2 heading into Game 5 on Thursday night in Buffalo.

The 22-year-old American, in his second NHL season, logged a game-high 28:02 of ice time in Montreal's 3-2 loss in Game 4 at home on Tuesday, more than three minutes above any other player. He added an assist in that contest, reaching 10 points in the postseason and becoming just the third Canadiens defenseman to do so in the past 30 years. In Game 3, Hutson set up Cole Caufield's power-play goal by capitalizing on a stickless Jordan Greenway, but his earlier hustle to keep the puck in the zone proved equally crucial, prolonging a weary Buffalo penalty kill.

Teammates credit Hutson's success to an unyielding work ethic. "Any chance he gets, he's doing something involving hockey," said Canadiens forward Noah Dobson from the dressing room. "He's back there stickhandling, shooting pucks all day, every day. It's impressive. He's got the love for the game." Hutson often arrives first for practices and skates on...