Team USA explains why Jackson LaCombe was chosen over Lane Hutson for the Olympics
Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
The worst-case scenario has just been confirmed for Montreal Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson.
Even when a chair opens up, Lane Hutson still doesn't get through the door.
In the last few hours, we learned that Jackson LaCombe is taking Seth Jones' spot on the American Olympic roster.
The reason given is an injury that will prevent Jones from participating.
And the second the replacement name came out, Montreal reacted the same way.
Because in Hutson's case, we're not talking about a risky gamble or a long-term project.
Last season, he completed his rookie year with 82 games played, 6 goals, 60 assists, and 66 points.
He also won the Calder Trophy. End of discussion.
Lane Hutson gets rejected again by Team USA, and it's not going over well
Honestly, it's unbelievable.
The frustrating detail is the context.
The American roster for Milano Cortina 2026 was unveiled at the beginning of the month, and Hutson wasn't on it then either.
When a spot opens up afterward, that's the perfect moment to correct the course, or at least open a window.
Instead, they slam that window shut even harder.
"According to those connected with the USA Olympic team on why Jackson Lacombe over Lane Hutson...'LaCombe has more Versatility and size. Plays PP, PK defends well. Skates amazing. We like Hutson but he's an undersized guy and we already have Quinn.'"
- Andy Strickland
- Andy Strickland
When you see a guy who already delivered a 66-point season being told, "no need."
No matter how often we repeat that international hockey is a puzzle of roles, the perception remains brutal.
In the end, the Canadiens will never control Team USA's decisions.
But they can benefit from the boomerang effect.
If Hutson stays the course and keeps stacking results, the message will eventually get through - even from a distance.
What a difficult decision to understand.
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Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 22|1812 ANSWERS Team USA explains why Jackson LaCombe was chosen over Lane Hutson for the Olympics Did Team USA make a mistake by ignoring Lane Hutson? | ||
| Yes | 1658 | 91.5 % |
| No | 154 | 8.5 % |
| List of polls | ||