Luke Hughes Emerges as Elite Defenseman for Devils With 6 Goals in 18 Games

Luke Hughes is establishing himself as an elite defenseman for the New Jersey Devils through improved defensive discipline and offensive aggressiveness. Reaching speeds of 20-22 mph on 30 occasions—tied for sixth-most among NHL defensemen—Hughes ranks second on the team with 1.4 defensive point shares. Paired with veteran Brett Pesce, the 23-year-old has posted six goals and 11 points in 18 games, closing in on his 250th career NHL appearance.