Islanders Sign Ben Hutton to Tryout Deal
The veteran defenseman, released by Ottawa in September, joins New York on a professional tryout agreement.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Hockey
The New York Islanders signed defenseman Ben Hutton to a professional tryout agreement, announced Monday, November 2, 2026. Hutton was released by the Ottawa Senators during final roster cuts in late September.
Why it matters
The move gives the Islanders depth on the blue line on a low-commitment basis, while offering Hutton a chance to re-establish himself after his release. For New York hockey fans, it adds an experienced NHL defenseman to the local roster mix.
Hutton has appeared in 575 career NHL games, scoring 30 goals and adding 109 assists across his career. He posted six goals and 15 points in 53 games during 2025-26, and it is not stated whether the tryout will convert to a standard contract.
The players
Ben Hutton
Ben Hutton is a veteran NHL defenseman who has played for Vancouver, Toronto, Anaheim, Los Angeles and Vegas.
New York Islanders
The New York Islanders are an NHL franchise based in the New York City area, competing in the Metropolitan Division.
Ottawa Senators
The Ottawa Senators are an NHL franchise based in Ottawa, Ontario, which released Hutton during roster cuts.
The details
Hutton, a former Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman, was drafted by the Vancouver Canucks 147th overall in 2012. He was part of the Vegas Golden Knights team that won the 2023 Stanley Cup.
Timeline
2012: Vancouver drafted Hutton 147th overall in the NHL Draft.
2021: Hutton was traded to the Maple Leafs at the Trade Deadline.
September 2026: Hutton signed a PTO with Ottawa, which released him in late September.
Monday, November 2, 2026: The Islanders announced the PTO signing.
Season Trajectory
Professional tryout deals are a routine tool in NHL training camp and early season roster construction. Veteran defensemen released during final cuts often land on PTOs as teams fill depth needs.
A professional tryout gives Hutton a chance to earn a contract, and the Islanders get depth without a long-term commitment. Fantasy managers should note that his 2025-26 production was six goals and 15 points in 53 games.
The takeaway
Tryout deals let teams evaluate experienced players at low risk during camp. For Hutton, the signing is a chance to show he can still contribute at the NHL level.
Further reading
For more on the local team, see Hockey coverage for New York City.
