Devils Daily: Hughes Takes Maintenance Day, Thornton Retires

The New Jersey Devils will be without their captain today when they take on the Minnesota Wild. More on that later. If you want to know the process of what goes into an NHL suspension, the Department of Player Safety rolled out a video explanation of their decision on Connor Clifton. Plus, a pair of big-time defensemen are nearing a return in Florida. Speaking of Florida, Joe Thornton had a cup of coffee there and just recently announced his retirement.

Let’s do that hockey.

New Jersey Devils

New Jersey Hockey Now: Connor Clifton received a two-game suspension for his illegal check to the head of Nico Hischier. The Devils captain was ruled out of Sunday’s contest against the Wild as a result of the hit.

NJ.com: Hischier was expected to be missing from Saturday’s afternoon skate. Jack Hughes however, wasn’t. New Jersey explained his absence was just a well-deserved maintenance day.

NHL: Here’s the explanation from the NHL Department of Player Safety on Clifton’s two-game suspension.

National Hockey Now

Colorado Avalanche

Colorado Hockey Now: The Avalanche have leaned heavily on Alexander Georgiev at the start of the season. Here’s why exhaustion isn’t a concern for Colorado.

Florida Panthers

Florida Hockey Now: The Panthers were forced to start the season without Aaron Ekblad and Brandon Montour. Their returns are seemingly around the corner as the defensemen have both returned to practice.

San Jose Sharks

San Jose Hockey Now: Joe Thornton hasn’t suited up in the NHL since the 2021-22 season. The 44-year-old officially announced his retirement on Saturday.

Montreal Canadiens

Montreal Hockey Now: The Canadiens are carrying three goaltenders in their 23-man roster. With all three performing well, Montreal could end up capitalizing on the goaltender trade market.

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