Jack Hughes calls ESPN reporter's injury joke 'weird' during Devils season opener

During the New Jersey Devils' season opener against the Philadelphia Flyers, an intermission interview between star player Jack Hughes and ESPN analyst AJ Mleczko resulted in an awkward exchange. Mleczko made a joke referencing Hughes' injury history from the previous season, specifically an incident during a team dinner that required surgery and caused him to miss 18 games. Mleczko suggested he be “wrapped in bubble wrap and use plastic cutlery this year.”

Hughes responded by calling the comment a “weird joke midgame” before skating away. The interaction drew mixed reactions on social media, with some viewers criticizing the reporter's timing and others questioning Hughes' reaction.

Despite the tension, Hughes contributed to a 3-2 overtime victory for the Devils, scoring the game-winning goal. His teammate, Luke Hughes, also scored during the contest.