Jack Hughes Not Amused by Bubble Wrap Joke in Opening-Night Interview

Jack Hughes was in no mood for humor during an in-game interview after the first period, and the exchange quickly drew reaction online. Some fans are saying that the reporter was way out of line and went for a joke that didn’t land. Others argue Jack Hughes is among the more unlikeable players in the NHL and this is an example of why.

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ESPN’s AJ Mleczko greeted Hughes with a lighthearted line about his health. “Well, it’s great to see you healthy, let’s wrap you in bubble wrap and use plastic cutlery this year. That sound good?” she asked. Hughes was blunt in response. “I think that’s a weird joke, it’s a big game,” he said, before skating off.

Welp that was awkward pic.twitter.com/surGRvDYtu

— Pete Blackburn (@PeteBlackburn) October 1, 2026

Reaction on social media was split, with plenty of fans calling the joke a misstep and describing Hughes as visibly unhappy with the question. “Welp that was awkward,” wrote Pete Blackburn. Another fan noted, “AJ Mlezcko with a lead balloon of a question for Jack Hughes. Absolutely not funny, and then she says that he “has no sense of humor.” Nothing like giving him another reason to dislike the media…”

What Was the Jack Hughes Joke In Reference To?

The cutlery reference was a callback to what happened last season. On Nov. 14, 2025, Hughes was injured at a team dinner in Chicago while the Devils were on the road. Reports described it as a freak accident, saying he slipped or leaned on a glass and cut his hand. He underwent surgery on his finger and was ruled out for about eight weeks, with a re-evaluation at the six-week mark.

The timing was costly. Hughes had 10 goals and 20 points in 17 games and was off to a hot start. The injury also put his status for the 2026 Olympics in doubt. He had already faced a shoulder injury in March 2025 that required surgery and ended his season early. The Devils, meanwhile, struggled with him out of the lineup.

Durability has been a recurring storyline for the former first overall pick, which may explain why the joke landed so poorly. He has a history of injuries, so making a joke at his expense and suggesting he be wrapped in bubble wrap was arguably in poor taste.

At the same time, Hughes might have understood the reporter likely meant no offense. He chose not to laugh it off.

For Hughes, the goal is a healthy start to the season, and he made it clear he wanted the focus on the game.

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