Let’s talk a bit about the veteran defenseman for the Montreal Canadiens, Mike Matheson.

Everyone is talking about Lane Hutson, and rightly so, by the way, but Matheson also deserves recognition.

Hutson has quickly become a fan favorite on the Habs. Many are showing their support, with some even purchasing official game jerseys sporting his number 48. His name is already well-known, even among the youngest fans!

The young defenseman absolutely deserves all the success coming his way, he’s sensational.

However, we mustn’t forget that Hutson’s rise could come at a cost to Mike Matheson.

As his contract is set to expire, losing his role on the Canadiens’ top power-play unit to young Hutson will undoubtedly impact his next contract.

Hutson’s emergence has resulted in Matheson losing ice time, recognition to some extent, and most importantly, it’s likely costing him money.

Had Matheson remained on the Canadiens’ top power-play unit all this time, he probably would have signed a bigger deal in 2026.

An incredible reaction from Mike Matheson

What I’m trying to say is that it would be so easy for Matheson to complain, to show dissatisfaction (like many athletes do when they’re pushed aside), or to simply remain neutral.

But that’s not at all what we’re seeing from Matheson right now.

As a truly exemplary teammate, Matheson genuinely seems happy for Lane Hutson. He sincerely appears to be pleased with what’s happening right now, and that speaks volumes about Matheson’s true character.

He accepts his new role, he’s a strong mentor for Hutson, and he’s genuinely thrilled to see the young player excel in the position he himself occupied in Montreal in recent years.

To me, this says an extraordinary amount about Mike Matheson.

A true professional.

Take a look at the images captured last night by TVA Sports journalist Anthony Martineau.

“Thoughts and huge respect to Mike Matheson, who has watched over the past few weeks as Lane Hutson takes ‘his’ spot on the club’s top power-play unit but continues to be fully professional.Watch his reaction to the game-winning goal when he would’ve been on the ice in the past.”

What a beautiful sight! Hats off to Mike Matheson!