Luke Hughes Working His Way Up as Devils’ Top Defenseman
Defense is a big key to the game of hockey; defense wins games, defense wins cups, and defense is everything. In the absence of New Jersey defenseman Dougie Hamilton, the Devils have changed things up to make up for his critical loss as the postseason approaches. New Jersey just recently snapped their three-game losing streak with a win against the Chicago Blackhawks, with the help of a young defenseman who has undoubtedly stepped up this season. In his second year, 21-year-old Luke Hughes ascended to a top role on defense with Brett Pesce. His skill on both defensive and offensive plays has raised his ice time to more than 20 minutes in the last few games. Trying to follow in his older brother Quinn Hughes's footsteps, Luke Hughes is a key part of the team's future and continues to keep getting more time as each game progresses.
His efforts in the United Center last night propelled the Devils to a 5-3 win. Hughes picked up three points from three assists in three out of the five Devils’ goals. The more the young defenseman produces, credit can likely be given to his brother Jack Hughes before his injury, the more he earns his spot in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. In his 64 games played this season, Luke Hughes has picked up 38 total points through six goals and 32 assists. These stats are close to Dougie Hamilton’s before his injury, meaning Hughes looks to be the perfect replacement in the 31-year-old defenseman’s absence. Through his defense, he’s added much more with his speed and puck play, a common skill found in all the Hughes brothers. Teams should know never to underestimate him at his young age, for his incredible talent and speed will be terrifying for years to come.
In the aftermath of last season's disappointing failure, with Luke Hughes being described as a turnover machine, it’s incredible to see his development. From his start in the NHL late in the 2022-23 season, Hughes has totaled 87 points through 16 goals and 71 assists through 148 games played. If there’s anything this season has shown fans, it’s that he’s proven his ability to produce consistently with multi-point games on both even strength and the power play. With his ability to adapt on both defense and offense, he’s shown he’s got what it takes to play in the postseason. Postseason-wise, he has two assists in three playoff games played against the Carolina Hurricanes, their likely opponent in the first round, so it’s safe to say he’s working hard to prepare to make his postseason return two years later. While he develops more every game, as well as other players starting to get hot, there’s no doubt this is exactly what this Devils team needs to find their groove again as they approach their destiny in the postseason.
