Fansided · Nov 6, 2025
Devils need Luke Hughes to carry the team faster than anyone predicted
The New Jersey Devils have a depleted blue line and a 22-year-old who recently signed a $63 million contract to carry the defensive rotation in 2025-26.
New Jersey Devils v Los Angeles Kings | Ric Tapia/GettyImagesAfter signing his $63 million deal before the season, the New Jersey Devils expected Luke Hughes to step up his game. Through 13 matchups, he's fared well, sharing the lead in points among Devils blueliners alongside Dougie Hamilton and Simon Nemec with seven, all of which are assists.
But with so many injuries, including those to blueliners like Brett Pesce and Jonathan Kovacevic, it's Hughes' chance to step up and show he's worth every bit of that contract he signed.