New Jersey Devils’ standout player Jack Hughes is set to be sidelined for eight weeks following finger surgery, the team confirmed. Hughes sustained the injury in an unusual accident during a team dinner, according to Sportsnet. The Devils plan to reassess his condition in six weeks, with an anticipated comeback in about two months. Hughes has often faced extended absences; since the 2021-22 season began, he has only played over 62 games in one season once.
Losing Hughes, one of the NHL’s top talents, is a significant setback, especially this season as he appeared fully healthy and was performing at a high level. Before his injury, Hughes was on track to notch 96 points, nearing the second-best of his career. The Devils have started strong in the 2025-26 season, leading the Metro Division with a 12-4-1 record and playoff potential.
Maintaining their division lead now poses a heightened challenge, likely pushing GM Tom Fitzgerald to consider strategic moves. Hughes’ absence greatly affects the team’s center depth; while Nico Hischier remains a key player, the Devils must rely more on players like Dawson Mercer, Cody Glass, and Luke Glendening, possibly stretching their roles.
To compensate, the Devils might explore options such as acquiring Nazem Kadri from Calgary or Ryan O’Reilly from Nashville. Calgary’s poor start could make Kadri available, though his hefty salary might complicate matters. O’Reilly, with just a year left on his contract and a more manageable $4.25 million cap hit, brings solid two-way play and could boost the second line.
Another bold move could involve contacting the Vancouver Canucks about Elias Pettersson, who may benefit from a new start and whose value might be lower despite strong recent performance. Regardless, Hughes is expected to return by mid-January, and any smart acquisitions now could fortify the Devils’ center depth, potentially giving them a serious edge in the playoffs.
Fan Take: Hughes’ injury is a big shock for Devils fans, but it also tests the team’s resilience and management savvy. How the Devils respond could shape not just their season but also set a precedent for handling star-player injuries in the NHL.
