New Jersey Devils Release Update On Luke Hughes Injury

On Wednesday, an image of New Jersey Devils defenseman Luke Hughes circulated the internet of his left arm in a sling. The image was clipped from a clip via Barstool Sports during an event at the University of Michigan in which the Devils defenseman was attending a football game.

The Devils announced on Thursday that Luke Hughes suffered a left-shoulder injury during his offseason training. The Devils also said upon examination by New Jersey’s medical staff, it was determined that he will not require surgery.

Hughes’ expected recovery timeline is six to eight weeks. He is currently in New Jersey under the guidance of the Devils’ athlete care staff where he will receive treatment and physical therapy.

Certainly, it’s not the news both the Devils and their fans were hoping to hear, as we await further clarification on the status of fellow sophomore defenseman, Simon Nemec, who suffered an upper-body injury during a 2026 Olympic Qualifier match playing for Team Slovakia.

Hughes is heading into his sophomore campaign after a very successful rookie season. Hughes placed third in the rookie scoring race behind winner, Connor Bedard, and runner-up, Brock Faber.

In 82 games last season, Hughes registered 47 points, potting nine goals and 38 assists. Both Hughes and Nemec finished second and third place respectively in average time on ice per game in 2023-24.

Hughes played in his first two career games at the end of the 2022-23 season, scoring one goal and one assist. He also skated in three 2023 Stanley Cup Playoff games and registered two assists.

Devils training camp is set to get underway on Wednesday, Sept. 18th. Hughes is not expected to participate in on-ice activities when training camp opens.

A six to eight week timeline from Sept. 12th projects Hughes’ return to be between Oct. 24th and Nov. 7th, which could hold him out of somewhere between 11 & 17 games.

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