After Being Released By The Senators, Prescott's Ben Hutton Lands A New NHL Job

Prescott's Ben Hutton won't be playing for his hometown Senators this season, but the veteran defenceman has found himself another NHL job.

The New York Islanders announced Thursday they've signed the 33-year-old to a one-year deal, just three days after bringing him in on a professional tryout.

Hutton, who was born in Brockville and raised in Prescott, spent part of September trying to earn a job with the Senators. He signed a PTO with the club on September 17, but after appearing in two preseason games, Hutton was released on September 29.

It was a disappointing outcome for the local product, who felt like he had a solid 2025-26 season with the Vegas Golden Knights.

Hutton appeared in 55 games, putting up six goals and 15 points. His goal total was a career high, and he also appeared in seven playoff games as the Knights made it to the Cup Final.

Despite all that, Hutton was unable to secure a contract.

"It's been a whirlwind," Hutton told reporters this week. "Never really experienced something like this. Been in the league for a little time now, and thought I had a good year. Nothing came of it."

Turns out the Sens could have used him this season, at least in the early going. At one point last month, the Sens were so banged up on the blue line, they dressed a number of defensemen (Carter Yakemchuk, Cameron Crotty, Hoyt Stanley, Jorian Donovan) who all had almost no NHL experience.

The Islanders have their own share of injuries. Ryan Pulock suffered an upper-body injury expected to keep him out for two to four weeks. The Islanders are also without Alexander Romanov, probably for the season, after he suffered a torn ACL in October. So they're pleased that a player like Hutton was available at this stage.

Islanders head coach Pete DeBoer has a pretty good idea what the team is getting. He was Hutton's head coach in Vegas, though only for one year. The following season, under Bruce Cassidy, Hutton won a Cup with the Knights.

Although things didn't work out with the Senators, it’s nice to see the likeable local veteran get another opportunity to show he can still contribute at the NHL level.

By Steve Warne
The Hockey News Ottawa