Devils Star Jack Hughes Suffers 'Freak' Hand Injury, Olympic Status Uncertain

New Jersey Devils star Jack Hughes is currently undergoing evaluation for a non-hockey related hand injury, which the team announced on Friday. The injury occurred during a "freak accident" at a team dinner on Thursday, leading to his return to New Jersey for further assessment instead of traveling with the team to Washington. Hughes, 24, is not expected to play in Saturday's game against the Capitals, with more clarity on his return timeline anticipated after the evaluation. This comes after a terrific start to the season where he recorded 10 goals and 20 points in his first 17 games, contributing to the Devils' 12-4-1 record and top spot in the Metropolitan Division. The extent of the injury also raises questions about his potential selection for Team USA for the 2026 Olympics in Milan, a roster he was expected to join alongside his brother, Quinn, before the December 31 deadline.