Should New Jersey Move Jack Hughes Before It’s Too Late?

Jack Hughes can’t seem to catch a break, and the New Jersey Devils may be approaching a point where uncomfortable questions need to be asked. After another injury scare Thursday night, the question is starting to grow louder: Is it time for the Devils to consider trading their franchise star?

---

Hughes left New Jersey’s game against the Nashville Predators after just 2:27 of ice time. He exited twice in the first period, briefly returning for a short shift before skating off again and heading straight down the tunnel. Head coach Sheldon Keefe later confirmed it was a lower-body injury, though he noted it is not believed to be serious. Hughes will be evaluated on Friday again to determine whether he can travel with the team to Ottawa.

Even if this injury proves minor, the larger concern remains. Hughes’ inability to stay healthy is becoming a troubling trend.

What Good Is a Constantly Injured Jack Hughes?

This is already the second time he has been sidelined this season, after missing a month due to finger surgery stemming from a freak off-ice accident. Last season, his year ended early following shoulder surgery.

When Hughes is in the lineup, there’s no questioning his value. Since returning in late December, the 24-year-old has produced 16 points in 18 games and continues to drive New Jersey’s offense. In fact, few, if any, NHL forwards have played more minutes since his return, showing just how heavily the Devils rely on him.

But availability matters as much as talent, especially for a team with playoff expectations. The Devils are now nine points out of a wild-card spot, and it looks like they’re going to be in tough to make the playoffs. This is a team many had pegged as a Cup contender. How poorly their season has gone has a lot to do with players being injured. In the meantime, there’s the Quinn Hughes drama that took place this season, with Quinn being traded to Minnesota and analysts wondering if the two brothers might end up somewhere together.

With the trade deadline approaching and the Olympics looming in two weeks, the Devils must seriously evaluate what their future looks like if Hughes cannot stay on the ice.

Trading a player of Hughes’ caliber would bring back a massive haul and could reshape the roster without forcing a full rebuild. At some point, New Jersey may have to decide whether his upside outweighs the growing durability concerns.

Next: Nazem Kadri’s Time With Flames Could Be Nearing The End