Jack Hughes Exits Devils vs. Predators Match Early
New Jersey Devils forward Jack Hughes exited the game against the Nashville Predators early, leaving midway through the first period due to an apparent injury. Reports confirm that Hughes, 24, played only 2:27 across three shifts before his departure. Team reporter Amanda Stein mentioned that Hughes did not return after the first intermission at the Prudential Center in Newark.
Stein noted, “Jack left in the first for a bit, came back, took one shift and left again. Still unable to come back, it appears.” At the time of his exit, the Devils and Predators were tied at one goal each after 40 minutes. Dougie Hamilton and Michael McCarron were the scorers for their teams.
Jack Hughes: Career Overview
Hughes was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft. He has encountered recurring injuries throughout his career, missing significant time in four of the last five seasons. As of Thursday, Hughes had participated in just 35 out of a possible 53 games this season, scoring 12 goals and recording 36 points.
Performance Statistics
| Season | Games Played | Goals | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-26 | 35 | 12 | 36 |
His career totals stand at 153 goals and 387 points in 404 games, including six goals and 11 points during playoff appearances. Hughes is signed through the 2030 season at an annual cap hit of $8 million.
Upcoming Games for the Devils
Before the 2026 Winter Olympics, the Devils have three remaining games. Their upcoming schedule includes:
- January 31: at Ottawa Senators
- February 3: vs. Columbus Blue Jackets
- February 5: vs. New York Islanders
As the Devils navigate this challenging season, the absence of their star player raises concerns for the team’s performance moving forward. Fans will eagerly await updates on Hughes’ condition and potential return to the ice.
