Jack Hughes' health remains critical for New Jersey Devils

The New Jersey Devils' ability to reach the playoffs is heavily dependent on the health of star player Jack Hughes. During the previous season, Hughes missed 21 games due to various injuries, including a finger surgery and a lower-body ailment. The impact of his absence was significant: the team posted a .582 winning percentage with him in the lineup, but fell to a .381 clip when he was unavailable.

When healthy, Hughes demonstrated elite production, recording 77 points in 61 games at a 1.26 points-per-game pace. If he had maintained that rate over a full 82-game schedule, he would have projected for approximately 103 points, which would have been a franchise record. Following the Olympic break, Hughes led all NHL players with 36 points in the final stretch of the season.

To support Hughes and improve the roster, General Manager Sunny Mehta has made several moves, including adding Anthony Mantha to provide scoring and size. The team has also secured Nico Hischier long-term and implemented a new coaching staff to prepare for the 2026-2027 playoff push.