Cole Hutson, a prominent defenseman for the U.S. World Junior team, experienced a frightening moment during a preliminary-round game against Switzerland at the IIHF World Junior Championship in St. Paul, Minnesota. Hutson was struck by a puck and subsequently required stretcher assistance off the ice, leading to a brief hospitalization.
Fortunately, USA Hockey announced that Hutson has since been discharged and has rejoined his teammates at the arena. He is currently listed as day-to-day regarding his health status. The incident occurred with 8:59 remaining in the second period when a shot from Swiss defenseman Gian Meier appeared to hit Hutson near the back of his helmet, resulting in him collapsing onto the ice. His teammates swiftly surrounded him as medical personnel attended to him.
U.S. coach Bob Motzko noted that he did not believe the puck hit Hutson directly on the head. He commended the team for maintaining their focus during a tense moment, highlighting that they were leading 1-0 against Switzerland at the time. Following the incident, the U.S. team went on to secure a victory, improving their tournament record to 2-0.
Motzko expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “It was a scary situation, no question. It’s a very close group of guys, and they responded.” He reflected on the somber atmosphere in the arena, which fell silent during the event, but emphasized the positive news of Hutson’s release from the hospital and return to the team.
At just 19 years old, Hutson is in his second season at Boston University, where he made a significant impact last year by leading all first-year players with 46 points and 32 assists. He was also part of the U.S. team that captured gold at the 2025 World Junior Championship in Ottawa, where he made history as the first defenseman to lead the tournament in scoring with 11 points.
Hutson, selected 43rd overall by the Washington Capitals in the 2024 NHL draft, is recognized as one of the top prospects for the team. He is the younger brother of Montreal Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson, who earned the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s rookie of the year last season, highlighting the family’s impressive hockey legacy.