Cole Hutson opened his first full NHL season with a goal Friday as the Washington Capitals defeated the Carolina Hurricanes 5-1 in Raleigh.
Hutson scored at 11:33 of the first period, extending Washington’s early lead to 2-0 at Lenovo Center.
The 20-year-old defenseman finished a play set up by Ilya Protas, with Aliaksei Protas also receiving an assist on the even-strength goal.
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Cole Hutson makes immediate impact
Cole Hutson entered the game as part of Washington’s opening-night defence pairing with Vincent Desharnais.
His goal came during a dominant opening period for the Capitals, who also received two goals from Alex Tuch before Jakob Chychrun added a power-play marker early in the second period.
Washington’s official scoring summary lists Hutson’s goal as his first of the 2026-27 season and the second goal of the game for the Capitals.
The result gave Washington a strong start to a season in which the club is trying to return to the playoffs after missing the post-season last year.
Hutson begins first full NHL campaign
Hutson was named to Washington’s 23-player opening-night roster on September 28, 2026.
The Capitals said he and forward Ilya Protas would enter their first full NHL seasons after both joined Washington for the final stretch of the previous campaign.
Hutson made his NHL debut on March 18, 2026, and recorded 10 points, including three goals and seven assists, in 14 games with Washington last season.
His early production set a franchise mark for points by a Capitals defenceman through his first 10 NHL games, according to the team.
Hutson’s opening-night goal against Carolina continued the offensive progress he showed after moving from Boston University to the Capitals late last season.
A different path from brother Lane Hutson
The Capitals’ young defenceman is the younger brother of Montreal Canadiens star Lane Hutson.
Lane Hutson won the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s top rookie in 2024-25 and has become one of Montreal’s most important offensive defencemen.
Cole has acknowledged that his older brother’s success creates high expectations, but he has also described Lane and their brother Quinn as important sources of advice as he adjusts to professional hockey.
The Hutson brothers are part of a growing group of NHL families with multiple players reaching the league, alongside the Hughes and Staal families.
Cole Hutson’s route has been distinct from Lane’s.
He was selected by Washington in the second round, 43rd overall, of the 2024 NHL Draft, then completed two seasons at Boston University before signing his entry-level contract in March 2026.
What comes next for Washington
Washington opened its schedule with a demanding road back-to-back, travelling to Tampa Bay to face the Lightning on Saturday, October 3.
The Capitals are scheduled to return home on Wednesday, October 7, for their home opener against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Hutson will be closely watched as Washington determines how much responsibility he can handle at five-on-five and on the power play.
The team’s opening-night roster included eight listed defencemen, with Rasmus Sandin designated injured non-roster, leaving Hutson competing for meaningful minutes among a mix of established veterans and younger players.
His performance in Carolina provided an early indication of why Washington expects him to become an important part of its blue line.
For now, the most immediate takeaway is straightforward: Cole Hutson began his first full NHL season by scoring in a Capitals victory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Cole Hutson?
Cole Hutson is an American defenceman for the Washington Capitals and the younger brother of Montreal Canadiens defenceman Lane Hutson.
Did Cole Hutson score in the Capitals’ season opener?
Yes. Hutson scored at 11:33 of the first period in Washington’s 5-1 win over the Carolina Hurricanes on October 2, 2026.
Who assisted on Cole Hutson’s goal?
Ilya Protas and Aliaksei Protas were credited with assists on Hutson’s goal.
When did Cole Hutson make his NHL debut?
Hutson made his NHL debut for Washington on March 18, 2026.
How many points did Cole Hutson record last season?
He recorded 10 points, including three goals and seven assists, in 14 games with the Capitals during the 2025-26 season.
Fact-Checked: Key details were checked against the Washington Capitals’ official roster release and NHL game records for October 2, 2026. ([nhl.com](https://www.nhl.com/scores/htmlreports/20262027/GS020018.HTM))
Disclaimer: Game statistics and player information reflect official records available as of October 3, 2026.