Full Breakdown
Lane Hutson’s Playoff Surge Overshadowed by 7-Foot-9 NCAA Star Olivier Rioux
5/12/2026, 9:47:18 PM
Game 3 Showdown: Who, What, When, Where, How
On May 10, 2026, the Montreal Canadiens hosted the Buffalo Sabres at the Bell Centre for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinal. The Canadiens won 6-2, taking a 2-1 series lead. Defenseman Lane Hutson, 5-foot-9, recorded two assists, extending his playoff point streak to eight of ten games. During intermission, the team posed with Olivier Rioux, a 7-foot-9, 305-pound NCAA basketball center from the UC Irvine Anteaters, who attended as a fan.
Background & Context
The Canadiens entered the 2026 Eastern Conference semifinal after a first-round series that featured the Tampa Bay Lightning. The series against the Buffalo Sabres drew a raucous crowd at the Bell Centre.
Data & Statistics
- Lane Hutson: 2 goals, 7 assists in 10 playoff games (9 points); 78 points (12 G, 66 A) in the regular season, ranking fourth among NHL defensemen in scoring.
- Olivier Rioux: 7 ft 9 in, 305 lb; UC Irvine Anteaters (NCAA Division I).
- Game 3: Canadiens 6, Sabres 2; series 2-1.
Timeline
- May 10, 2026 – Game 3, Canadiens 6, Sabres 2 (series 2-1).
- Game 4 – scheduled for the following Tuesday at the Bell Centre.
Why It Matters
Hutson’s playmaking has made him a focal point for Montreal, prompting fan chants of “MVP” and shaping the team’s offensive approach. The photo with Rioux amplified media attention on the height contrast, illustrating a cultural crossover between professional hockey and college basketball. The image circulated widely on social platforms, prompting commentary on the juxtaposition of size and skill in sport.
Official Statements & Responses
CBC Montreal sports reporter Kwabena Oduro noted the height disparity, saying the encounter made him feel “short” despite his professional role. Canadiens officials have not issued a formal comment, though the organization’s social media highlighted the image.
On-the-Ground Reports
Fans at the Bell Centre captured the moment and shared the photo online. During the post-game celebration, spectators repeatedly chanted “MVP” in reference to Hutson’s contributions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “ Easily then tallest person I've ever interviewed.” — Kwabena Oduro, CBC Montreal sports reporter
- “Never felt so short in my life.” — Kwabena Oduro, CBC Montreal sports reporter
- “MVP” — Fans at Bell Centre
- “He became just the third Canadiens player to record a point in the team’s first five games of the postseason, joining legends Larry Robinson and Serge Savard, and it does not look like Hutson is showing any signs of slowing down.” — awinninghabit.com analysis
What's Next
Game 4 is set for the following Tuesday at the Bell Centre. The Canadiens aim to extend their series lead, while Hutson’s production remains a key focus for analysts and fans.
