The New Jersey Devils announced that defenseman Luke Hughes will be out for six to eight weeks with a left shoulder injury.
Devils defenseman Luke Hughes suffered a shoulder injury during off-season training. He will be out 6-8 weeks. #njdevils @FullPressNHL @myNHLTradeRumor @DevilsNationX
— Jim Biringer (@JimBiringer) September 12, 2024
Hughes suffered the injury per the team during off-season training this past month. After being examined by the Devils medical staff, they decided the best course of action was rehab and not require surgery. However, all his physical therapy will be under the guidance of the Devils athlete care staff.
#NEWS: The New Jersey Devils announced today that defenseman Luke Hughes suffered a left shoulder injury earlier this month during off-season training. Upon examination by New Jersey’s medical staff, it was determined that he will not require surgery.
Hughes’ recovery time is… pic.twitter.com/i5OJlnxG2Q
— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) September 12, 2024
This is the second injury to a Devils defenseman this off-season. Simon Nemec hurt his left shoulder a couple of weeks ago while playing for Slovakia in an Olympic Qualifying Game. He was held out of the team’s final game as Slovakia qualified for the Olympics. He has been rehabbing his left shoulder and hopes to get back on the ice for the start of training camp next week. This only made noise because he was spotted at the Michigan-Texas game wearing a sling on his left arm over the weekend.
The Case for Luke Hughes in NHL Network’s Top 20 Defensemen
New Jersey, again, cannot escape the injury bug. Hughes is a key member of the Devils’ defense this season. Last season, in 82 games with the Devils, Luke Hughes had 47 points (nine goals and 38 assists), averaging 21:28 of ice time. Dougie Hamilton was injured last season, and Hughes and Nemec played a role in stabilizing that defence corps. However, the Devils failed to make the playoffs last season. Hughes finished third in the Calder Trophy voting for NHL Rookie of the Year.
This would be a big year for Luke Hughes to take the next step in his game. He could have also proven his worth on a long-term extension. With it being September 12th and not knowing when the injury happened, Luke Hughes could return as the October 24th against the Detroit Red Wings or as late as the November 7th game against the Montreal Canadiens.
Again, this scenario is based on the rehab process going well and his not needing surgery later. With Hughes out of the lineup, expect some of the other defensemen to step up, like Johnathan Kovacevic, Santeri Hatakka, Daniil Misyul (if he makes the roster), or Seamus Casey (if the Devils feel he is ready).
The Luke Hughes situation with the Devils is something to watch moving forward.
