New Jersey Devils Star Jack Hughes Exits Game Due to Injury Against Vegas Golden Knights

Image credits: Ian Maule/AP

The New Jersey Devils suffered a significant blow on Sunday night as their star center, Jack Hughes, exited the game against the Vegas Golden Knights due to an injury. The incident occurred in the third period when Hughes collided with Vegas forward Jack Eichel, causing him to tumble to the ice and into the boards. With 1:48 left in the game, Hughes was unable to continue playing, leaving his team trailing 2-0. The Devils' head coach, Sheldon Keefe, was ejected from the game after arguing with the officials that the collision could have been called a tripping minor.

The injury to Hughes is a significant concern for the Devils, as he leads the team in goals (27) and points (70) this season. His absence could alter the team's plans heading into the trade deadline on Friday. Hughes has a history of injuries, having sat out 20 games last season and finishing with 74 points. The Devils have struggled offensively since the beginning of January, and losing their best player could exacerbate the issue. The team's offense and defense will need to step up to compensate for Hughes' potential absence. The Devils' playmaking abilities will also be affected, as Hughes is a key player in creating scoring opportunities.

The game itself was a tight contest, with the Golden Knights ultimately emerging as 2-0 winners. The Devils were unable to capitalize on their scoring chances, and the loss drops them to 2-2 on their current five-game trip. The team will look to bounce back on Tuesday against the Dallas Stars. In the meantime, the Devils will be waiting anxiously for an update on Hughes' condition, as his health will play a significant role in determining the team's fortunes for the remainder of the season. The team's schedule is as follows:

• Tuesday: vs. Dallas Stars
• Friday: trade deadline

• 2nd in the Metropolitan Division

Hughes' brother, Luke Hughes, was emotional after the game, and the media was escorted out of the locker room to give him privacy. The Devils' organization will be hoping that Jack Hughes' injury is not too severe and that he can return to the ice soon. The team's fans will be eagerly awaiting an update on his condition, as his presence is crucial to the team's success. The Devils' management will also be considering their options ahead of the trade deadline, as they look to strengthen their roster and make a push for the playoffs.

The injury to Hughes is a reminder of the physicality and unpredictability of the NHL. The Devils will need to adapt quickly to his potential absence and find ways to compensate for his scoring and playmaking abilities. The team's depth and resilience will be tested in the coming days, as they look to navigate the challenges of the NHL season without their star player. The Devils' coaching staff will need to make adjustments to the team's strategy and lineup, as they look to mitigate the impact of Hughes' injury.