CRANBERRY, Pennsylvania Cole Hutson remembered seeing the Montreal Canadiens select his older brother Lane in the second round of the 2022 NHL Draft (at pick No. 62).
The typical feelings were present for Cole, a defenseman for the USA Hockey National Team Development Program Under-18 squad: drive, enthusiasm, and relief. However, it was unexpected where drive came from for that final one.
“It was a great day for our family when he got picked,” said Cole. “It was evidently somewhat distressing for him to be dropped given his stature (5-foot-9, 158 pounds) and alleged defensive prowess. I therefore sort of want to get revenge on him and, perhaps, surpass his performance.”
The 17-year-old, who is qualified for the NHL Draft in 2024, might his June shot. If Cole is selected higher, NTDP coach Nick Fohr predicts that it will be because of a skill set that is quite comparable to that of his brother, who is 19 years old.
Cole (5-10, 158) is a B-rated skater on NHL Central Scouting’s preliminary players to watch list, making him a projected second-round choice in the 2024 draft.
Lane, another defenseman, finished the 2021–22 United States Hockey League season with 32 points (six goals, 26 assists) in 27 games for USNTDP. Since then, in 52 games at Boston University, where Cole is committed, he has amassed 64 points (23 goals, 41 assists).
Cole has 25 points (four goals, 21 assists) in 32 games the previous season; this season, he has three assists in seven USHL games.
“They’re remarkably alike. Very similar players, according to Fohr. “You watch them on the rink and notice how similar they are—how they move, how they posture pucks, and the deceit they may use to trick their opponents. I’m sure they each have advantages and disadvantages.
“I believe Lane may have a somewhat higher
motor and possibly puts in a little more effort. However, I believe Cole is just far more natural at the game. Simply put, he finds it easier. Thus, they are ultimately rather similar. To be honest, you’re examining specks in order to distinguish between them.”
Cole, though, is unwilling to limit himself to being just an offensive defenseman.
“I think just fixing up my defensive side of the game,” he stated. “I believe people are aware of my offensive prowess, so I don’t want them to doubt my ability to defend. I’m merely attempting to formulate my defense.”
