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Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens have pulled off quite a feat.
It’s an achievement that speaks volumes about the excellent work the general manager has done at the negotiating table.
In IceMetrix’s latest rankings, three Canadiens players are listed among the 10 best contracts in the NHL.
Montreal reportedly has three of the best contracts in the entire National Hockey League, including two signed by the current general manager.
The rankings, released for the 2026-27 season, highlight the Canadiens’ strong contract management.
It’s another recognition of Kent Hughes’ work.
Unsurprisingly, Lane Hutson sits at the top of the list.
The young defenseman ranks first with his $8.85 million annual contract.
It’s an incredible bargain, especially considering Quinn Hughes is expected to sign for roughly $17 million or $18 million per season.
The Canadiens captain ranks second with a deal worth $7.8 million per year.
The sniper comes in ninth, also at $7.8 million per season, an incredible price for a 50-goal scorer.
Having three players from the same team in the top 10 is pretty remarkable!
Salary-cap management becomes a strategic advantage
This type of ranking says a lot about Kent Hughes’ vision.
Every contract signed at the right time creates valuable savings under the salary cap.
That efficiency gives Montreal rare flexibility, and every dollar saved can be reinvested elsewhere to address the team’s needs and build around its core.
It could allow Kent Hughes to pull off one or two more major moves.
See the full rankings here:
The list also includes Utah Mammoth winger Dylan Guenther, another player I really like.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics