Canadiens Prospects Hutson & Fowler Debut At WJC Showcase

Two Montreal Canadiens prospects are currently in Michigan taking part in Team USA’s World Junior Championship Summer Showcase, goaltender Jacob Folwer and high-flying defenceman Lane Hutson.

Hutson’s presence in the lineup was expected, as he will be expected to play a big part in the United States push for a medal at the 2024 World Junior Championship. Hutson and the USA were eliminated in the semi-final of last year’s tournament.

Fowler, on the other hand, will have to impress if he’s to steal the starting role from Trey Augustine (41st overall, 2023, Detroit Red Wings). He’ll attempt to do so while sporting a brand-new mask, inspired by Iron Man.

MUST READ: Montreal Canadiens Prospect Rankings Summer 2023 Edition

Unfortunately, Fowler’s summer showcase got off to a rough start, as Team USA Blue was shutout 7-0 in their opening matchup against Sweden. We’ll have to give him a little time to get comfortable given he hasn’t played since leading the Youngstown Phantoms to a Clark Cup championship.

Jacob Fowler with a sweet Iron Man setup.

The Montreal Canadiens prospect is headed to Boston College. #WJSS pic.twitter.com/ZayZHJmgLB

— Steven Ellis (@SEllisHockey) July 29, 2023

Hutson’s Shines

As for Hutson, he did not waste any time getting back to his old tricks: breaking ankles and setting up teammates with perfect passes. His offensive prowess has always been evident, but it’s still entertaining to see him do his thing against various levels of competition.

There will always be those who ignore Hutson due to his size and weight, but as we’ve seen, he’s been able to dominate in the offensive zone while playing in the USHL, the NCAA, the WJC, and the World Championship.

Hutson also did a good job of cutting off the rush, which has been an area of weakness in the past, especially if he’s facing a much bigger opponent.

Excellent zone entry and keep by Lane Hutson (MTL) with great vision to find Rutger McGroarty (WPG) in front. Team USA White 1-0 #WJSS pic.twitter.com/VMXSHv7mzn

— Ryan Sikes (@ryan_sikes10) July 29, 2023

It’s also worth noting that Hutson was currently listed at 175 lbs on a practice sheet, which is rather encouraging. Of course, we should always take listed weights with a grain of salt, especially when Hutson was closer to 160 lbs when he reported to the Canadiens’ development camp.

This the “Team White” half of the American roster, featuring ‘23 bronze medalists Trey Augustine, Lane Hutson, and Rutger McGroarty among others pic.twitter.com/Q0OYNjg3oi

— Sam Stockton (@_samstockton) July 27, 2023