Lane Hutson returns the favor to a Green Bay Packers player

On the eve of the start of the NFL playoffs, an unexpected scene unfolded in the corridors of the Bell Centre: Lane Hutson arrived wearing a Green Bay Packers jersey.

The Canadiens' young defenseman, already considered one of the NHL's most promising backs, gave a heartfelt nod to Packers defensive lineman Lukas Van Ness.

The gesture was not insignificant. A few weeks earlier, Van Ness himself had attracted attention by entering the Green Bay stadium with a Hutson jersey slung over his shoulders. A show of support that quickly made the rounds of the sports media.

It's game day! It's game day! https://t.co/Cwf1cYnaCm pic.twitter.com/Raa3gFYrl1

– Montreal Canadiens (@CanadiensMTL) January 10, 2026

This unexpected bond between an NFL player and an NHL rookie star is rooted in one major commonality: their hometown.

Both Hutson and Van Ness hail from the Barrington area on the outskirts of Chicago, Illinois. This geographic proximity partly explains the camaraderie and mutual respect that emerge from these trades.

The Packers' defensive winger played hockey as a child, and Lane Hutson's father coached Luka Van Ness. The former NFL first-round pick is still an avid hockey fan and follows Hutson's prowess from afar during the season.

A rare but appreciated gesture in the sports world

Although this isn't the first time a professional athlete from another sport has donned the colors of the Montreal Canadiens, such moments are rare enough to merit special mention. They testify to the growing influence of players like Hutson, whose popularity now extends beyond the traditional boundaries of hockey.

The Habs defenseman, known for his calm, intelligent play and creativity, is rapidly gaining notoriety in the North American sporting world. This kind of wider exposure, whether from the NFL or elsewhere, illustrates the impact he is already making despite his young age.

By imitating Van Ness, Hutson has not only returned the favor: he has reinforced a friendly bridge between two major leagues, while underlining the common pride of their origins.

This content was created with the help of AI.