The Washington Capitals signed defenseman Cole Hutson to a three-year entry-level contract with an average annual value of $975,000, the team announced.
The 19-year-old was drafted by Washington in the second round in 2024. He’s recorded 10 goals and 22 assists in 35 games for Boston University this season.
Hutson represented the United States in the world junior championships in 2025 and 2026.
When the U.S. won gold in 2025, he tallied three goals and eight assists. He became the first defenseman to lead the tournament in scoring.
The signing comes as Washington looks to rebuild its blue line. The Capitals traded John Carlson before this year’s deadline as their postseason hopes continue to fade.
Hutson could represent the future of Washington’s defensive corps. His offensive production from the back end mirrors the style that made Carlson valuable for over a decade with the franchise.
The entry-level deal brings Hutson into the Capitals’ system as they transition toward younger players.
