Jack Hughes, a star player for the New Jersey Devils, will be undergoing season-ending surgery on his shoulder in Colorado. The procedure will be performed by Dr. Peter Millett, and Hughes is expected to make a full recovery in time for training camp next season. This decision came after discussions with his family, representatives, the Devils training staff, and the team’s chief medical officer, Dr. Jonathan L. Glashow. Hughes leads the Devils in goals this season and is first in points per game, ranking 13th in the NHL in that category.
With just three games left in the season, the Devils are currently five points behind the Red Wings for the final wild card spot in the Eastern Conference. Moneypuck lists their odds of making the postseason at 0.3 percent. The decision for Hughes to undergo surgery was made as he hasn’t participated in the team’s morning skate and didn’t play in the game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. This season, he has missed several games due to upper-body injuries that occurred in November and January.
Despite the injuries, Hughes has been a key player for the Devils, with 74 points and 47 assists this season, ranking second among Devils’ skaters. He was switched from center to wing in February, a move that allowed him to focus more on offense and less on defensive responsibilities. Head coach Travis Green cited this change as a way to help Hughes in his recovery from injuries. Green did not provide specific details about Hughes’ injuries but emphasized his versatility and ability to play both positions effectively.
Jack Hughes is considered one of hockey’s young stars, having recorded three straight 25-plus goal seasons. In the 2022-23 campaign, he scored 43 goals, leading the Devils to an unexpected run to the second round of the playoffs. Despite this season-ending surgery, Hughes is expected to make a full recovery and be ready for the next season’s training camp. The decision to shut down Hughes for the remainder of the current season was made with his long-term health and well-being in mind, ensuring that he can return to the ice at full strength.
