Jack Hughes left Thursday night’s game against the Nashville Predators after just 2:27 of ice time, and for the New Jersey Devils, it was another all-too-familiar sight. Hughes skated off twice in the first period-once briefly returning-before heading down the tunnel for good.
Head coach Sheldon Keefe later confirmed it was a lower-body injury, though initial indications suggest it’s not serious. Still, he’ll be reevaluated Friday to determine whether he can travel with the team to Ottawa.
Even if this latest setback proves minor, it adds to a troubling pattern that’s becoming harder to ignore. The Devils’ franchise centerpiece just can’t seem to stay healthy-and that’s a major problem for a team trying to contend.
Hughes’ Talent Isn’t in Question-But His Availability Is
Let’s be clear: when Jack Hughes is on the ice, he’s electric. Since returning from a previous injury in late December, the 24-year-old has posted 16 points in 18 games.
He’s not just producing-he’s driving New Jersey’s offense. Few forwards league-wide have logged more minutes in that span, a testament to how much the Devils lean on him.
But even the most dynamic playmakers can’t help their team from the press box. This is already the second time Hughes has been sidelined this season.
The first came after a freak off-ice accident that required finger surgery and cost him a month. Last season ended with shoulder surgery.
Now, another lower-body issue adds to the growing list of ailments.
For a team that came into the season with Stanley Cup aspirations, that’s a tough pill to swallow. The Devils now find themselves nine points out of a wild-card spot, and the clock is ticking. Injuries-not just to Hughes-have played a huge role in derailing what was supposed to be a breakout year.
A Franchise at a Crossroads
The Devils are staring down a critical stretch. The trade deadline is fast approaching.
The Olympics are just two weeks away. And the front office has to take a hard look at where this team is headed-not just this season, but long term.
That brings us to the uncomfortable question: What if Jack Hughes can’t stay healthy? How long can New Jersey afford to build around a player who can’t consistently stay in the lineup?
It’s not a question of talent. Hughes is a game-changer when he’s right. But in a league where durability is as important as explosiveness, the Devils may have to weigh whether his upside is still worth the risk.
The Trade Talk: Real or Premature?
Let’s not pretend trading Jack Hughes would be easy-or popular. He’s the face of the franchise, a former No. 1 overall pick, and one of the most skilled forwards in the league. But if Hughes continues to miss significant time, the Devils could be forced to consider a move that once seemed unthinkable.
A trade would bring back a massive return-likely a combination of young talent, high picks, and immediate contributors. It could allow New Jersey to retool on the fly rather than tear everything down. And with the Quinn Hughes storyline still lingering-after his trade to Minnesota earlier this season-the idea of the brothers reuniting somewhere else has been floated more than once.
But this isn’t about sentiment. It’s about sustainability. If the Devils don’t believe they can count on Jack Hughes to be available when it matters most, then they owe it to themselves-and to their fans-to explore every option.
For now, all eyes are on Hughes’ next evaluation. But the bigger question looms: How long can New Jersey afford to wait for their star to stay healthy?