New Jersey Devils Star Jack Hughes Out for Season Due to Shoulder Injury
In a significant blow to the New Jersey Devils' postseason aspirations, the team announced that Jack Hughes, their star center, will be sidelined for the rest of the season due to a shoulder injury that requires surgery. This setback comes at a critical time as the Devils find themselves in a precarious position, trailing by five points in the race for a playoff spot.
Hughes to Undergo Shoulder Surgery
Hughes, who has been a pivotal figure for the Devils this season, is scheduled for surgery this Wednesday in Colorado. This development is disheartening for the team and its fans, given Hughes's impressive performance on the ice. Averaging 1.19 points per game, he ranks 13th in the NHL, showcasing his importance to the Devils' offense. Not only does he lead the team in goals, but he also holds the second spot for both assists and points.
Despite playing in only 62 games this season due to previous injuries, Hughes has managed to accumulate his second-highest points total in his career thus far. His contributions have been invaluable, and his absence will undoubtedly be felt by the team in the final stretch of the season.
Impact on Devils' Playoff Hopes
The timing of this injury could not have been worse for the Devils. Currently seated seventh in the Metropolitan Division, the team is in a challenging position as they vie for a wild-card spot, presently occupied by the Red Wings. Hughes's absence will test the team's depth and resilience as they attempt to close the gap without their leading scorer.
Hughes's statistics speak volumes of his impact on the team. Over 306 regular-season games, he has notched 114 goals and contributed 167 assists. His performance in last year's playoffs, with six goals and 11 points, further underscores his value as a clutch player for the Devils.
A Decision Made with Care
The decision to opt for surgery was made after thorough consultation involving Hughes, his family, his representatives, the Devils’ athlete care staff, and the team’s chief medical officer Dr. Jonathan L. Glashow. The collective agreement prioritizes Hughes's long-term health and career, ensuring he returns to the ice in optimal condition for the next season. The Devils have expressed confidence in Hughes's recovery, expecting him to be fully available for next season's training camp.
“Recent conversations with Jack, his family and representatives, the Devils’ athlete care staff, and Dr. Jonathan L. Glashow, led us to the conclusion that it is in Jack’s best interest to sit out for the remainder of this season and proceed with shoulder surgery," the Devils explained in a statement. This collaborative and cautious approach reflects the importance of Hughes to the team and their commitment to his health and future success.
Looking Forward
As the Devils navigate through the remainder of the season without their star player, the team's depth and adaptability will be tested. The absence of Hughes is a significant setback, but it also provides an opportunity for other players to step up and contribute. The team’s performance in the upcoming games will be crucial if they hope to secure a playoff spot.
In the meantime, all eyes will be on Hughes's recovery and his return to the ice. His presence has been instrumental for the Devils, both in terms of scoring and leadership. The expectation for a full recovery by next season’s training camp is a silver lining amidst the disappointment of the current situation. As the Devils and their fans look towards the future, they do so with the hope that Hughes will come back stronger and ready to lead the team to greater heights.
In conclusion, Jack Hughes's season-ending injury is a significant loss for the New Jersey Devils as they pursue a spot in the playoffs. His contributions to the team are undeniably impactful, and his absence will be a challenge for the team to overcome. However, the decision to undergo shoulder surgery was made with Hughes's long-term health and career in mind, ensuring he returns to the ice in optimal shape for the coming seasons. As the Devils look to compensate for the loss of their star center, the focus shifts to the team's resilience and the depth of their roster to keep their playoff dreams alive.
