Capitals sign Hutson, highly-touted prospect, to 3-year deal

The next generation of Washington Capitals is on the way. The franchise signed Cole Hutson, their second-round selection in the 2024 NHL draft, to a three-year, $2.9 million NHL contract on Sunday.

Hutson is widely regarded as one of the top defenseman prospects in North America. The 19-year-old recorded 24 goals and 56 assists in two seasons with Boston University. His 80 points were the most by any NCAA blueliner during that stretch.

The Illinois native helped lead Boston to a national championship game appearance last season as he racked up accolades. He leaves the NCAA level as a two-time Hockey East All-Star. 

Last week, TSN ranked Hutson as the top defenseman prospect — and the seventh-best prospect overall — in its list of NHL-affiliated skaters. 

The 2025 All-American represented Team USA at the World Junior Championships over the past two years, serving as an alternate captain during this year’s tournament and leading the Americans in points during last year’s gold medal run. 

Hutson’s older brother, Lane Hutson, is a rising star for the Montreal Canadiens and has scored 134 points in 149 NHL games. 

The Capitals’ fan base is eager for youth after the franchise traded veteran defenseman John Carlson at the trade deadline. Washington could also promote Ilya Protas, another top Capitals prospect with an older brother in the NHL, before the season finale next month. 

The Capitals are currently six points behind the Detroit Red Wings for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with 14 games remaining.

Hutson is expected to speak to the media after a practice on Tuesday and could debut on Wednesday against the Ottawa Senators.