Lane Hutson was arguably one of the biggest names who were seen as ‘snubbed’ of an opportunity to join the USA’s Olympic orientation camp, and after his extremely impressive Calder Trophy winning season, being invited was almost seen as a certainty. But, after not being invited to the camp, and being the most notable of players to not receive an invite, is it really as big of a shock as we thought, and is he even ready enough to compete in a best on best tournament? Here’s why not.
The United States just missed out on four nations faceoff glory in February after being defeated by Canada in overtime, but their defense looked stronger than ever, and looks like the concrete unit heading to the Olympics. It is likely there will be players competing for spots, but it is hard to see any of the seven who headed to the four nations being replaced.
Having Brock Faber, Adam Fox, Noah Hanifin, Charlie McAvoy, Jacob Slavin, Adam Werenski, and Quinn Hughes as the seven originally selected for the four nations, and not to mention Jake Sanderson also made the team following Quinn Hughes’ absence. With those eight seeming untouchable heading towards the Olympics, having a guy like Hutson compete would just be a waste of time, and in reality a pointless addition.
Although Quinn Hughes was unavailable in the four nations due to injury, being a key part of the Olympic team means the offensive defenseman slot is locked down, meaning no open slot for a player like Hutson. It isn't simply an argument of Hutson isn't good enough, or Hutson hasn't deserved his chance, but changing the defensive core who headed to the four nations wouldn't make sense, and the group showed there is no room for any more additions.
In some way it was a shock to see Hutson not even to get considered at all, but in the grand scheme of things, it all makes sense. Hutson would be competing for a spot he knows he wouldn't win, and with the defensive eight likely to stay put, it really isn't a big surprise.
Even though the reigning rookie of the year hasn't had his shot at representing his country on the international stage yet, he is 100% undoubtedly a top four d-man for the USA in the next three or four years. Hutson’s ‘snub’ isn't anything to think too deep into, and it is simply a case of no room at the inn.
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