The New Jersey Devils are patiently waiting to see what the status is of superstar center Jack Hughes. Hughes is the latest Devils' player to go down with an injury, and this one is no doubt the most impactful of the season. While playing the Vegas Golden Knights, Hughes got tied up with Team USA teammate Jack Eichel and went hard into the boards.
Hughes quickly raced off the ice, and he was clearly shaken up by the collision with the boards. He ran into the boards with his shoulder, which is an even bigger concern. Hughes had surgery on his shoulder last year, which ended his season prematurely. If it's another shoulder injury, this now becomes a long-term concern.
The information surrounding Hughes's injury has been inconsistent, with some people sharing positive news while others say the situation is dire. The usual news breakers, like ESPN's Kevin Weekes, have been very careful with their words as to not reveal too much and possibly be incorrect in their reporting.
**Medical Update** 🚨 🚑
— Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) March 4, 2025
In speaking to sources involved, I’ve confirmed superstar F Jack Hughes is undergoing further medical testing/ evaluations, and the @NJDevils are awaiting definitive results. #HockeyX #NJDevils pic.twitter.com/ApWnYqmqo7
However, Weekes's ESPN colleague Emily Kaplan gave the most specific update on Hughes yet. She said during the broadcast of the Devils-Stars game that Hughes has a very important decision in front of him.
.@emilymkaplan on ESPN+ pregame: “#NJDevils Jack Hughes is gonna be out for a bit, and what I was told is that he’s deciding whether he needs to get surgery or not, which will dictate the timeline.”
— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) March 5, 2025
Very upsetting update to Jack Hughes' presumed shoulder injury
Obviously, this is devastating news for the Devils who are trying to hold onto a playoff spot with the Columbus Blue Jackets and New York Rangers surging. Even if the Devils can hold everyone off and make the playoffs, what would come of it? Without Jack Hughes on this team, it's hard to say they can compete with the best of the best.
Still, there are options on the trade market that could make this season worthwhile. Ryan O'Reilly or Jared McCann would immediately change the odds for the Devils. Can they change their fortunes, or is it time to play out the string?