Washington Capitals rookie Cole Hutson scored his first NHL goal in dramatic fashion during his debut against the Ottawa Senators. The 19-year-old defenseman netted the empty-net goal with just 25.7 seconds remaining, capping a 4-1 victory. Hutson's milestone came after a 3-on-1 rush where teammate Connor McMichael practically begged him to shoot.

Hutson, drafted by Washington in the second round of 2024, made the jump to professional hockey less than a week after his season ended at Boston University. His arrival had helped soften the blow of trading veteran defenseman John Carlson at the deadline. The young blueliner admitted to pre-game jitters but looked composed during his 16:22 of ice time.

Capitals forward Tom Wilson praised Hutson's poise with the puck, noting the confidence the team felt having him on the ice. The goal came during a Senators power play after Ottawa pulled their goalie in a desperate attempt to tie the game. For Hutson, the moment marked the beginning of what Washington hopes will be a promising NHL career.