The New Jersey Devils announced on Tuesday that star center Jack Hughes will be undergoing season-ending shoulder surgery. This comes as a devastating blow to the team as they are in the midst of a playoff push and Hughes has been a key player for them throughout the season.
Hughes, along with his family, representatives, and the Devils medical staff, made the decision to proceed with the surgery. This decision was not made lightly, but it was determined to be in the best interest of the 22-year-old player. The surgery will be performed by Dr. Peter Millett in Vail, Colorado, with hopes that Hughes will make a full recovery in time for the next season.
Losing Hughes at this critical juncture comes at a time when the Devils are fighting for a playoff spot for the second consecutive season. Last year, the team made it to the second round after a four-year absence from the postseason. Hughes has been a standout player for the Devils, leading the team in goals and ranking second in points.
The absence of Hughes is a significant setback for the Devils as they are currently five points behind the Detroit Red Wings in the race for the final Eastern Conference wild-card spot. With only a few games left in the regular season, every point matters, and the competition is fierce among the teams vying for that spot.
The Devils are one of five teams within five points of the Red Wings, with the Pittsburgh Penguins tied on points but having played one fewer game. The Philadelphia Flyers and Washington Capitals are also in the mix, making it a tight race to the finish line. The Devils and the Buffalo Sabres are each sitting at 78 points, hoping to make a late surge to secure a playoff berth.
Jack Hughes’ season-ending surgery is a significant blow to the New Jersey Devils as they fight for a playoff spot in a competitive Eastern Conference. The team will have to rally together and find ways to compensate for the loss of their star player as they push towards the postseason.