Following in His Brother's Footsteps: Cole Hutson's Journey to the NHL
Cole Hutson, a talented defenseman, is following in the footsteps of his brother Lane, who won the Calder Trophy as the NHL's top rookie last season. Cole, who is undersized but highly skilled, is returning to Boston University for his sophomore year. He aims to win a national championship and graduate before deciding whether to join the Washington Capitals, who drafted him in the second round of the 2024 NHL Draft.
Despite his impressive performance as a freshman, Cole is not rushing to turn pro. He had a standout season with 48 points and was named the NCAA rookie of the year. Cole also excelled at the World Junior Championship, leading the tournament in points as a defenseman. The Capitals view him as a promising prospect, similar to Ryan Leonard, who transitioned to the NHL after completing his sophomore year at Boston College.
While Washington anticipates Cole's potential NHL readiness by the end of the season, BU coach Jay Pandolfo acknowledges his special talent and hopes he stays longer. Cole's maturity and patience in making his decision reflect his growth and dedication to improving his game. Learning from his experiences and seeking advice from his brother Lane, Cole is focused on honing his skills and becoming a professional player.
Pandolfo sees similarities between Cole and Lane in their playing styles and competitiveness. He notes that Cole is more physical but shares their exceptional hockey sense and anticipation on the ice. As Cole prepares for another season with BU, the Capitals eagerly await his decision on turning pro. Pandolfo expects Cole to have a stellar year and believes he will be a significant asset to the team. Cole's enthusiasm for the upcoming season bodes well for his future in the NHL.