A newly-signed Edmonton Oilers prospect is set to make his NHL debut.
After morning skate, news came out that forward Quinn Hutson will be in the lineup on Monday night when the team hosts the Los Angeles Kings.
Hutson recently signed his first NHL contract, confirming a two-year, entry-level contract that begins immediately. The deal, which will expire after next season, has an AAV of $875,000.
The 23-year-old became eligible to be signed at the conclusion of his junior season with Boston University, which saw Hutson and the Terriers lose in the NCAA National Championship Game to Western Michigan.
After the first two seasons of his time at BU saw him play more of a supporting role, Hutson burst out of his shell, posting career highs in goals (23), assists (27) and points (50). Along with leading the Terriers in scoring, he finished ninth in the country in scoring.
Hutson’s play was good enough to help get BU back to the Frozen Four for a third consecutive season. He scored three points in the Toledo Regional, including the game-winning goal in overtime to beat Cornell in the regional final last month.
Huston finished his NCAA career with 117 appearances in a BU uniform, scoring 56 goals and 58 assists for 114 points.
Other news out of morning skate revealed that forward Ryan Nugent-Hopkins will be back in the lineup for the big game. However, Leon Draisaitl, who’s been jonsing for some action in the lead-up to the playoffs, will remain out of action.
Nugent-Hopkins hasn’t played since last Monday against the Anaheim Ducks due to an illness. Edmonton has been able to win all three games in his absence.
The additions of Hutson and Nugent-Hopkins could be key for Monday night’s clash. The Oilers (47-28-5) sit two points back of the Kings for second in the Pacific Division and home-ice advantage for the first round of the playoffs. If Edmonton were to lose, L.A., who has a game in hand, could lock up second place later this week.