3 Young New Jersey Devils Who Will Be Even Better in 2023-24
By Marci Rubin
1. Luke Hughes, Defenseman, 19
Move over Jack…make room for another Hughes in New Jersey. After Luke Hughes finished his second season at the University of Michigan, he signed an entry-level contract with the Devils. Selected fourth overall by the Devils in 2021, Luke Hughes is expected to greatly impact this team for many years alongside his brother.
Hughes is known as an offensive defenseman, tallying 48 points in 39 games with Michigan this past season. Forget a hat trick — Hughes scored four goals in a Michigan vs. Penn State game. He’s a solid, confident skater who moves the puck well. Playing a full season in the NHL next year will give him a chance to further develop his defense.
Fans saw the Luke Hughes trailer in the 2022-23 season, a preview before his rookie season next year. He played in two regular season games and three Stanley Cup Playoff games in Round 2. Hughes had his first big moment with the Devils in his second NHL game, the final game of the regular season. He scored the game-winning goal in OT against the Capitals with a sick wraparound. The goal secured the Devils’ franchise record-setting 52nd win.
Like Schmid, the young Hughes was called upon when the playoff lineup needed a shake-up. The move was the right call by Lindy Ruff, as the Hughes brothers had themselves a night in Game 3. Luke and Jack combined for six points, even assisting on the same goal. His playoff performance was not perfect, but Luke Hughes oozes potential.
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Next season, Hughes will be a crucial piece of a strong group of defensemen, which includes players like veteran Dougie Hamilton and the steal of last offseason, John Marino. He’s only 19, so Luke Hughes has plenty of time to shine.
The future is bright for the New Jersey Devils, with young players like Akira Schmid, Dawson Mercer, and Luke Hughes looking for bigger impacts next season. The 2022-23 season was the beginning of something incredibly special. The next era of Devils hockey has arrived.