Film Room: How Lane Hutson turns NHL games into a chess match

Every time Lane Hutson gets the puck at the top of the offensive zone, he gives everyone in the arena – teammates, defenders, and fans alike – the feeling that something spectacular might happen. 

That’s the mark of a special prospect.

“Oohs” and “ahhs” accompany every one of his moves along the blue line. He takes on defenders one-on-one, eludes them, and finds teammates in ideal positions around the net.

How does he do it?

Hutson is constantly reading defences. He notices defenders' angles of approach, assesses the space he has, identifies attackable pockets, and tracks his teammates’ positions. He probes defenders for weaknesses, seizing even the slightest advantage. When he sees a lane open up, he drives in. If defenders cut off his speed and space, he instantly spots open teammates and pa