Capitals’ Cole Hutson Makes Splash in NHL Debut, Scores First Goal
Washington Capitals rookie defenseman Cole Hutson made a memorable first impression Wednesday night, scoring a power-play goal in his NHL debut against the Ottawa Senators. The Capitals won the game 4-1.
Rookie Makes Immediate Impact
The 19-year-old Hutson, selected in the second round (No. 43) of the 2024 NHL Draft, played 16:24, including two minutes on the power play, and registered three shots on goal. He capped off the night with a late empty-net goal.
I’m super nervous,” Hutson said after the morning skate. “I don’t know what it’s going to be like yet, but I think once I get the first shift out of the way, I’ll be all right.”NHL.com
A Hockey Family
Hutson is part of a rare NHL sibling trio, joining his brothers Lane Hutson (Montreal Canadiens) and Quinn Hutson (Edmonton Oilers) as one of only two sets of three brothers currently playing in the league. The other is the Hughes family (Quinn, Jack, and Luke).
Lane and Cole Hutson also made history as the second defensemen sibling duo to each have a point in his NHL debut (Blake and Glen Wesley were the first).
Filling a Void on the Capitals’ Blue Line
Hutson’s arrival comes at a crucial time for the Capitals, who traded veteran defenseman John Carlson prior to the NHL Trade Deadline. He signed a three-year, entry-level contract on March 15.
Before joining the Capitals, Hutson excelled at Boston University, where he recorded 80 points (24 goals, 56 assists) in 74 games over two seasons.
International Success
Hutson’s talent extends to the international stage. He led the IIHF World Junior Championship in points with 11 in seven games during the 2025 tournament, helping the United States win the gold medal.
Notably, Hutson (born June 28, 2006) is the first teammate of Alex Ovechkin to be born after Ovechkin’s own NHL debut on October 5, 2005.
Absolutely,” Carbery said. “No sense in putting the restrictor plates on. Like, ‘Let’s head.'”NHL.com
Did You Know?
Hutson’s entry-level contract carries an average annual value of $975,000, the maximum allowed for such a deal.
Looking Ahead
The Capitals currently sit six points out of the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. Hutson’s addition provides a boost to their roster as they push for a playoff berth.
FAQ
- How old is Cole Hutson? 19 years old.
- What team drafted Cole Hutson? The Washington Capitals drafted him in the second round of the 2024 NHL Draft.
- Where did Cole Hutson play before the NHL? He played at Boston University.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Hutson’s power-play usage. Coach Carbery has indicated he intends to utilize Hutson’s offensive skills in that area.
What are your thoughts on Cole Hutson’s debut? Share your opinions in the comments below!