Devils center Jack Hughes exits game early with injury

New Jersey Devils star center Jack Hughes left Thursday night’s matchup against the Nashville Predators in the first period and did not return. The 24-year-old skated just three shifts, logging 2 minutes and 27 seconds of ice time before heading to the locker room with a trainer. The Devils did not provide an immediate injury update, leaving fans and the team in suspense.

This concerning exit comes at a critical time for Hughes, who has been a key contributor since returning from an earlier ailment. The game at Prudential Center saw Hughes depart after a shift at the 7:31 mark of the opening frame. With the Devils holding a middling record, his availability moving forward raises questions about the team’s depth.

The incident during the Devils-Predators game

Hughes took his first shift and briefly left for the locker room before returning for a second. He came back out but exited again permanently after just 56 seconds on his third shift. A trainer accompanied him down the tunnel, signaling potential seriousness.

The game itself was tied 1-1 at the end of the second period, per reports from the arena. For full play-by-play and stats, check the NHL gamecenter page. Hughes registered no points in his limited time.

Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe was expected to address the media post-game with any updates. No specifics emerged immediately, fueling speculation among observers.

This marks the second time this season Hughes has dealt with health issues, amplifying concerns. The Predators, meanwhile, pushed forward without major disruption from the incident.

Hughes’ strong return and season stats

Since returning from his prior injury, Hughes tallied 14 points over 16 games, showcasing his elite skill set. He notched two assists in Tuesday’s 4-3 loss to Winnipeg, proving his impact right away.

Overall, the center has 36 points—including 12 goals and 24 assists—in 36 games this season. In 18 games post-recovery, he added two goals and 16 points, anchoring the top line.

His play has been vital for a Devils squad sitting at 27-24-2, hovering near the Eastern Conference bottom. Hughes leads the team in scoring alongside linemates like Jesper Bratt.

Without him, New Jersey’s center depth thins, especially with Cody Glass also sidelined. The team will need others to step up if his absence extends.

A pattern of setbacks in recent seasons

Hughes missed five weeks earlier this year after slicing his right thumb on broken glass during a team dinner in Chicago. Surgery followed on November 15, sidelining him for 19 games.

Last season, a shoulder injury ended his campaign prematurely after he slammed into the boards against the Golden Knights. That limited him to the first half.

These recurring issues have tested his durability, despite his dynamic offensive talents. At 24, Hughes remains a cornerstone for both club and country.

The Devils have managed around these absences before, but timing adds pressure now. Fans hope this is minor, unlike prior surgeries.

Olympic dreams hanging in the balance

Just two weeks before Team USA’s first game at the Milan Cortina Olympics, Hughes’ status is under scrutiny. He and brother Quinn are first-time Olympians on the 25-man roster.

USA Hockey already swapped Jackson LaCombe for injured Seth Jones on defense. The Americans boast two brother duos:

• Jack and Quinn Hughes (New Jersey Devils and Vancouver Canucks)
• Matthew and Brady Tkachuk (Florida Panthers and Ottawa Senators)

Hughes expressed excitement about donning the stars and stripes earlier this month. A prolonged absence could force another roster tweak.

For the full U.S. roster details, see the ESPN injury report. His health will be pivotal for medal contention.

Impact on the Devils’ playoff push

New Jersey’s mediocre standing amplifies the blow of losing Hughes even short-term. At 27-24-2 after recent losses, they fight for a wild card spot.

Center depth becomes critical with Glass out too. Prospects and veterans like Nico Hischier must fill the void.

Trade deadline looms post-Olympics, and prolonged absence might prompt moves. Last year’s shoulder issue led to early playoff exit.

The team showed resilience in Hughes’ prior absence, winning key games upon return. Still, his creativity drives the offense.

Keefe’s post-game comments will clarify next steps. For now, the Devils monitor closely.

As details emerge on Jack Hughes’ condition, the hockey world watches intently. The Devils await imaging and evaluation, hoping for quick clearance ahead of the Olympic break. His track record suggests resilience, but caution prevails given the calendar. New Jersey and Team USA need their star healthy for the stretch run—what comes next could define both campaigns.