For New Jersey Devils fans, it's been a rough ride lately. With only one playoff series win in the last 13 seasons, the team seems set to make it 14 without much to celebrate.
Back in the 2022-23 season, things were looking up as the Devils set a franchise record with 52 wins. Jack Hughes was the star of the show, delivering a remarkable 99-point season-the best offensive performance in the team's history.
However, since then, the team has struggled, and Hughes has faced his own challenges. He's missed 61 of 221 games due to injuries, including a recent groin strain that sidelined him before the Olympic break. Some have questioned his commitment to the team, but those critiques might not tell the whole story.
NHL insider and former Devils player Mike Rupp weighed in on the situation, expressing skepticism about Hughes' absence from recent games. Rupp suggested that if Hughes truly wanted to play, he would have pushed to be on the ice.
What critics often overlook is the severity of Hughes' injuries. After an unfortunate hand injury at a team dinner in Chicago, Hughes was far from 100% but still pushed himself to play.
His teammate Connor Brown praised Hughes' dedication, noting that he played through conditions that would have sidelined many others. Despite being visibly hampered, Hughes managed to lead the team with 16 points in 19 games.
Even with his shooting struggles, Hughes contributed to 40% of the team's goals. A friend and Olympic teammate pointed out that Hughes' desire to win is undeniable, both for the Devils and on the international stage.
It's easy to target Hughes as a scapegoat in a disappointing season, but the truth is, the Devils' struggles run deeper than one player's health. Even a fully fit Hughes wouldn't single-handedly transform the team into contenders.
Some have labeled Hughes as "selfish" due to his puck-dominant style, but his recent role shift in Milan shows otherwise. Embracing a bottom-six role, Hughes has demonstrated his willingness to do whatever it takes for the team. Matthew Tkachuk praised Hughes' adaptability, emphasizing how his commitment elevates the entire team.
Looking ahead, there are signs of hope. Head coach Sheldon Keefe recently shared a positive update on Hughes' condition, noting that he looks like his old self again. With his hand injury improving and more mobility returning, Hughes seems poised for a strong comeback.
Fans' frustration with Hughes' availability is understandable, but it's crucial to distinguish between injury-related absences and a lack of care. Even Sidney Crosby faced similar challenges early in his career. Hughes still has time to change the narrative around his injuries, especially considering the freak nature of his hand injury.
In his last 274 games, Hughes has racked up 327 points, placing him among elite company in the league. Despite the Devils' ongoing struggles, Hughes remains a cornerstone of the franchise's future.
Hughes has expressed his love for playing in New Jersey, and the fans have shown their support in return. With his contract running through 2029-30 and his brother Luke also on the team, the future holds promise.
And who knows? Maybe another Hughes brother will join the Devils down the line.