Dynamic Defenseman Re-Signs Contract with the Devils
At just 21 years old, defenceman Luke Hughes has blown past expectations and proved himself worthy of playing in the NHL. Despite playing only two full seasons as a professional with the New Jersey Devils, Hughes has demonstrated that he's ready and able to step up when needed and is capable of dominating on the ice. This fourth overall pick had a great season despite missing several games due to injury. Hughes played a total of 71 games and earned 44 points, a better point average than his first full season. Reportedly, the New Jersey Devils were eager to attempt to extend Hughes’s contract once he became a restricted free agent. According to … the Devils have agreed to re-sign Hughes on a seven-year $63 million contract, hoping to continue to see him develop on the ice.
Hughes spent two years at the University of Michigan playing hockey for the Wolverines. In 80 games, he earned a total of 87 points throughout his time at the university. He was drafted by the New Jersey Devils in 2021 and signed a three-year entry-level contract on April 8th, 2023, just a couple of days following the Wolverines being eliminated from the NCAA Frozen Four. Hughes played his first NHL game on April 11th, joining his brother Jack Hughes on the ice. During the April 13th game, Hughes scored his first NHL goal during overtime, securing a 5-4 win over the Washington Capitals. Unfortunately, Hughes' season ended during the playoffs due to a shoulder injury. He underwent surgery early in May and is expected to make a full recovery and be ready for training camp this summer.
Though Hughes has only played two full seasons with the team, the Devils saw great value in keeping him around. Not only is he an incredibly versatile player, but his chemistry on and off the ice with the team is sensational. Additionally, it is incredibly rare to have brothers in the league at the same time, let alone two on the same team. If the Devils wanted any chance of eventually acquiring Quinn Hughes, which we can all assume they do, keeping Jack and Luke on the team for longer would be necessary. After several amazing games and impressive stats throughout his time in the NHL, eyes fall on the 21-year-old to help hold up the team. Once he is fully recovered, Hughes will have the chance to continue developing and proving himself as a player with the Devils.
