15 most important people in New Jersey Devils organization: 9. Luke Hughes

The New Jersey Devils struck gold when they were able to select Luke Hughes with the 4th overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft. Not only did it make Jack Hughes happy which is always important for this organization, but they also added a great talent. 

In 2022-23, Luke went back to Michigan for a second season and it was great for him. He then signed with the Devils after losing with Michigan in the Frozen Four. He got in two games and a few playoff games to begin his NHL career. 

By the time the 2023-24 season rolled around, he was ready for a full year in the NHL. He went on to have 47 points and came in third place for the Calder Trophy. He had his learning moments on the defensive side of things but he also had some huge moments in the offensive zone. 

Now, he comes into the 2024-25 season looking to take yet another big step. As of this moment, he is the 9th most important person in the New Jersey Devils organization. He has an incredibly high ceiling as an offensive defenseman in this league and that is something the Devils need from him.   

Luke Hughes is going to be a big part of the New Jersey Devils for a long time

If everyone on New Jersey’s blue line does what they are best at, they could get back to being one of the best teams in the league. For Luke Hughes, that means bringing offense and making life better for the forwards. 

With Dougie Hamilton coming back from injury, it is not a guarantee that Luke Hughes will be the quarterback on power play one. However, you can bet that he’ll be on one of the two units and both will play a big role in helping this team score goals. 

In addition to all of the things that Luke brings on the ice, he also is good for marketing off the ice. Being Jack Hughes’s brother is well marketed and they also have their eldest brother Quinn Hughes who plays for the Vancouver Canucks.

The three Hughes brothers are going to be the cover athletes on the next edition of EA Sports NHL. This is a big moment for the three of them as every kid grows up dreaming of being on the cover. For Luke, this is a big opportunity for him to be in the spotlight after just one NHL season. 

If the New Jersey Devils bounce back after a down year, you know that Luke Hughes is going to be playing a major role in it. Despite being so young on defense, which is an incredibly hard position to be put in, he has all of the tools needed to get it done.