Jack Hughes Undergoes Shoulder Surgery, Out for 2024-25 Season

NEWARK, N.J. — New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes is sidelined for the remainder of the 2024-25 season after undergoing successful shoulder surgery on Wednesday, March 5. The surgery, performed by Dr. Peter Millett at The Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado, followed an injury sustained in a game against the Vegas Golden Knights on March 2.

Hughes, 23, sustained the injury when he collided with Vegas center Jack Eichel and crashed into the boards. He immediately left the ice clutching his arm, leading to concerns about the severity of the injury. Following further evaluation, Hughes and the team’s medical staff determined that surgical intervention was necessary to address the issue.

“Following a review of the imaging and subsequent conversations with Jack, his family, representatives, and the Devils’ medical and athlete care staffs, it was determined that Jack would proceed with shoulder surgery,” the team stated in a release.

The two-time All-Star was leading the Devils with 27 goals and had recorded 70 points in 62 games this season before the injury, making his loss a significant blow to the team’s postseason aspirations. For roster management, Hughes has been placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR), which frees up his $8 million in salary cap space as the league’s trade deadline approaches.

The Devils currently stand third in the Metropolitan Division with 72 points but have struggled recently, posting a record of 9-11-3 since January 1. Unlike the strong start to the season, they face increased pressure from competing teams looking to close the gap.

Hughes’ surgery marks the second consecutive season that an injury has truncated his year; he missed the final three games of the previous season due to a separate shoulder issue. Throughout his six-season career with the Devils, Hughes has amassed 141 goals and 210 assists for a total of 351 points in 368 games.

The 2024-25 campaign is now concluded for Hughes, but he is expected to make a full recovery and be ready for the Devils’ training camp in 2025. His absence leaves the Devils needing to regroup and adapt as they enter the crucial final stretch of the season.