Devils' Luke Hughes Placed on LTIR with Shoulder Injury; Will Avoid Surgery

Devils defenseman Luke Hughes has been placed on long-term injured reserve, retroactive to January 19, due to a shoulder injury. Sources confirm he will avoid surgery, opting instead for rehabilitation. Hughes exited Monday's game with the issue and is expected to be unavailable through the Olympic break, with no clear timetable for his return. Prior to the injury, Hughes played in all 49 games, recording 5 goals, 21 assists, 39 blocked shots, 24 PIM, and 13 hits, averaging 23:04 of ice time.