Overview
- New Jersey announced Hughes had successful finger surgery performed by Dr. Robert Hotchkiss at the Hospital for Special Surgery, with re-evaluation in six weeks and an expected return in eight.
- The injury was described in multiple reports as a fluke accident at a team dinner involving glass, though exact details remain unconfirmed.
- The Devils placed winger Connor Brown on injured reserve and recalled Shane Lachance from AHL Utica, with Lachance joining the club in Washington.
- Hughes, 24, leads New Jersey with 20 points (10 goals, 10 assists) in 17 games as the 12-4-1 Devils sit atop the Metropolitan Division early in the season.
- With rosters for the 2026 Olympics due December 31, Hughes’ status introduces uncertainty for Team USA despite a projected mid-January return-to-play window.