5 New Jersey Devils players who will be MUCH better next season
By Nick Villano
Luke Hughes
2023-24 Points: 47
This one is basically expected as Luke Hughes is coming off an inconsistent rookie year where he showcased exactly how good he could be without coming close to his peak. He did finish in the top three for the Calder Trophy, but many (including this writer) felt like Simon Nemec had an overall better season. It’s not a bad place, since Nemec is also a superstar defensive prospect, but Hughes had some lapses that needed work.
Hughes was dynamic and was, at times, the fastest player in the NHL. He’s been able to score goals from one end of the ice to another. This is a superstar in the making. He has all the tools to be amazing one day.
However, his defensive lapses had some calling for him to be benched. While that’s extreme, it can’t be understated how important Hughes will be to the future of this franchise. Obviously, the Hughes brothers are essential to this franchise from a moneymaking standpoint, but they will also be huge for the on-ice product.
Luke Hughes has everything going for him, and he’s be paired with a fantastic player. The right side of the Devils’ defense is stacked. This allows Hughes to focus on what he does best. On top of that, the Devils’ power play cannot be worse. Hughes will get 10 or more added points to his total on a positive power play on its own.