Devils News
Devils Nico Hischier & Jack Hughes Update; Top AHL Scorer Recalled | UPDATED
Bad news for Nico Hischier? The New Jersey Devils recalled their top AHL scorer, signaling the captain could be sidelined with injury.

On Monday morning previous to the New Jersey Devils’ tilt with the Philadelphia Flyers, head coach Sheldon Keefe gave an update regarding some injuries.
Nico Hischier‘s status was undetermined following an injury he suffered against the Montreal Canadiens over the weekend. Canadiens forward Nick Suzuki cross-checked the Devils captain in the mid-section. The uncalled infraction caused Hischier to hunch over in pain on the bench during Saturday’s second period.
MORE: Devils Nico Hischier Injured, Leaves Game vs. Canadiens
Head coach Sheldon Keefe labeled the Devils captain as “day-to-day” following the 4-3 overtime win, and on Monday provided an update on Hischier who was returned to New Jersey for further evaluation.
“[Hischier] gone back to Jersey to get evaluated,” Keefe explained. “We’ll have more information once we get that figured out. … He might have the hardest job in hockey right now; in terms of the level of competition he plays against, the face-offs, all three zones, penalty kill.”
Jack Hughes was also missing from Monday’s morning skate. However, he was confirmed to play against the Flyers by the Devils’ head coach.
Hughes is dealing with a finger injury he suffered against the Boston Bruins two games ago. Keefe explained Hughes is experiencing swelling as a result of stitches. The Devils are managing the injury by giving his hand as much rest as possible.
It was revealed that the Devils recalled their top AHL scorer, Brian Halonen, for at least Monday night’s game.
The Devils are already dealing with a significant injury to Jacob Markstrom who is out until at least after the 4 Nations Face-Off with an MCL sprain.
Now, Hischier’s absent is another significant one, especially when you consider the Devils’ lack of center depth.
The result of Hischier’s absence is Dawson Mercer sliding to the center position on the second line, while Halonen skates on the third line.
Hischier is New Jersey’s leading goalscorer, potting 24 pucks in 51 games this season.
In 34 games with the Utica Comets, Halonen leads the Devils’ AHL affiliate with 15 goals in 34 games.
Monday’s puck drop with the Flyers is slated for 7 P.M. E.T.
For more Devils news, visit New Jersey Hockey Now, subscribe to our YouTube and like our Facebook page.
Follow us on 𝕏:
@NJDHockeyNow, @JamesNicholsNHL, @NickNatale10