The numbers behind Lane Hutson's breakout rookie campaign

Lane Hutson's skating ability and offensive prowess have made him one of the NHL's best defensemen. His 58 assists are the most for any rookie since Mathew Barzal, and he ranks third in the NHL for end-to-end rushes by a defenseman. Hutson is also a tremendous facilitator of the puck, creating chances for himself and his teammates. While there are concerns about his ability to defend at the NHL level, his improved defensive play has coincided with the Canadiens' rise in the standings. The real development will come if he consistently tilts the ice in Montreal's favor over the balance of all scoring chances that occur while he's on the ice.