Cole Hutson became the 103rd Boston University men’s ice hockey player to appear in a National Hockey League game when he made his debut for the Washington Capitals on March 19. Hutson played over sixteen minutes and scored his first goal, helping the Capitals secure a 4-1 win against the Ottawa Senators.
Hutson’s achievement follows that of Macklin Celebrini, who also scored in his NHL debut after winning National Rookie of the Year honors in 2024. Hutson was selected by Washington in the second round of the 2024 draft and signed a three-year contract with the team earlier in the week.
During his college career, Hutson recorded 80 points across 74 games for Boston University. He earned First Team All-American honors as a freshman and helped lead his team to the national title game in 2025. Last season, he was named both top rookie and top defenseman in New England. This year, he became only the fifth Terrier defenseman to be named a Hockey East First Team All-Star two years running, and just the second league defenseman—after his brother Lane—to earn first-team recognition as both a freshman and sophomore.
Hutson is from Chicago and is now the third member of his family to play in an NHL game, joining brothers Lane (Montreal Canadiens) and Quinn (Edmonton Oilers). The Hutsons are the first trio of brothers from Boston University’s program to all reach the NHL.
Hutson’s debut adds another milestone for Boston University’s hockey program, highlighting its continued impact on professional hockey.
