Canadiens Star Lane Hutson Disrespected by NHL Network, Fans are Furious

The NHL Network released its Top 20 Defensemen Right Now list on Wednesday, and Montreal Canadiens phenom Lane Hutson cracked the list after obviously not being on it last year since he hadn't broken into the league yet.

The 21-year-old Calder Trophy winner came in at 19th, the sole player on the list with only one season of NHL experience.

Though quite an accomplishment, some Habs supporters were quick to express displeasure, suggesting he was ranked too low following his record-breaking rookie season.

All other blueliners on the list have a minimum of three full seasons of experience. Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche was ranked first, with Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes and Columbus Blue Jackets' Zach Werenski following.

There was plenty of Canadian representation as Quinn Hughes, Winnipeg Jets' Josh Morrissey (6th), Edmonton Oilers' Evan Bouchard (10th), Ottawa Senators' Jake Sanderson (13th), and Lane Hutson (19th) all cracked the list.

Hutson's rookie campaign was nothing short of historic: 66 points, breaking Chris Chelios' Canadiens record for points by a defenseman, and tying Larry Murphy's NHL rookie defenseman assist mark.

His elite skating, sharp hockey sense, and ability to recover instantly from mistakes quickly earned him coach Martin St-Louis' trust and a promotion to the top power-play unit.

With Ivan Demidov coming to Montreal this year and the addition of Noah Dobson bringing competition, Hutson's position will be one to monitor. Based on his contributions last season, it would be a surprise to be displaced from the first unit.

As he gains muscle and experience, Hutson should rise higher on this list in the coming seasons, quieting those who believe 19th is much too low.