Harry Lichtman
The Washington Capitals officially signed defenseman Cole Hutson to an entry-level contract, per ESPN’s Kevin Weekes. Hutson’s three-year deal will carry an average annual value of $975,000.
Hutson, 19, was selected by the Capitals in the second round (43rd overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft. The young defenseman will join the team immediately, as they keep their playoff hopes alive.
Hutson had recorded 32 points (10 goals, 22 assists) in 35 NCAA games with Boston University this season. His sophomore year came to an end on Saturday after the Terriers fell to UConn in the Hockey East Quarterfinals.
Also this season, Hutson led Boston University in assists, points, game-winning goals (4), overtime goals (2), shots (148), and plus-minus (plus-13). He ranked tied for fifth among NCAA defensemen in scoring, and was named a Hockey East First Team All-Star.
As a freshman in 2024-25, Hutson registered 48 points (14 goals, 34 assists) in 39 games with Boston University. The North Barrington, Illinois native also helped the Terriers reach the National Championship game.
Hutson finishes his collegiate career with 80 points (24 goals, 56 assists) in 74 games. Those 80 points are the most by an NCAA defenseman over the last two seasons.
It is very possible that the 19-year-old Hutson could make his NHL debut this week. The Capitals’ next game will be at home against Ottawa on Wednesday.
