Devils Aim for Playoffs After Losing Star Center Jack Hughes

NEWARK, N.J. — New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes will miss the remainder of the season due to shoulder surgery, but the team remains determined to secure a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Hughes, who was placed on long-term injured reserve after sustaining the injury during a 2-0 loss to the Vegas Golden Knights on Sunday, is expected to be ready for training camp next season.

“Dig in, that’s the mindset,” said Devils captain Nico Hischier. “It’s a big loss, but this happens to teams. Everybody has got to step up their game and play for those guys we know would love to be here playing these meaningful games down the stretch.” Hughes leads the team with 27 goals and ranks first in game-winning goals with seven, in addition to leading with 229 shots on goal.

Devils defenseman Luke Hughes echoed the need for the team to rally together in light of Jack’s absence. “We need guys to step up and kind of just rally together,” he said. “Even though the loss against the Dallas Stars (4-3) wasn’t what we wanted, I was proud of how we fought to the end.” Hughes expressed his disappointment on Instagram after his surgery, stating he is eager for recovery and returning to the ice.

Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe acknowledged the challenging task ahead without his star player. “We’re going to have to go about things a little differently in terms of earning offense, but our strategy doesn’t need to change,” he said. The Devils currently sit at 33-24-6, holding onto the third position in the Metropolitan Division, four points ahead of the Columbus Blue Jackets.

“Qualifying for playoffs is still our goal, without question,” Keefe emphasized. “We’re in a playoff position, and we expect to remain in one as the season progresses. The League is tighter than ever, but we need to keep growing as a team.” With 19 regular-season games remaining, the Devils are set to face the Winnipeg Jets at home on Friday.

In a strategic move, the Devils acquired veteran defenseman Brian Dumoulin from the Anaheim Ducks to bolster their lineup amidst injuries. Dumoulin will help fill the gaps left by Dougie Hamilton and Jonas Siegenthaler, who are also sidelined. Keefe expressed confidence in Dumoulin’s ability to make an immediate impact, stating he is a reliable defender with a strong winning background.

“We’re still a confident group and we know what we can do,” said forward Dawson Mercer. “We have to do our jobs and help our team win, regardless of injuries. We need to pick up as many points as we can and maintain our belief in reaching the playoffs.” With challenges also faced by defenseman Parayko, who will undergo surgery for a knee injury, the situation across the league continues to remain competitive.