The New Jersey Devils enter the 2026-27 season with renewed focus after a disappointing 2025-26 campaign that saw them miss the playoffs despite a promising start. Building on their strong core, the team aims to correct course and secure a playoff berth through strategic adjustments and player development.
As the organization prepares for the upcoming season, evaluating player roles and projections becomes critical. This analysis focuses on the Devils’ defensive corps, beginning with Luke Hughes, a key figure in their defensive strategy.
2025-26 Performance
Hughes appeared in 68 games during the 2025-26 season, contributing 35 points (6 goals, 29 assists). His campaign was abruptly cut short by a shoulder injury sustained in January, though he returned on Feb. 28 before entering rehabilitation.
Hughes opened the season with two assists in the season opener against the Carolina Hurricanes, becoming the Devils’ only multi-point performer. He matched this feat in his next game versus the Tampa Bay Lightning, before scoring his first goal of the year on Nov. 15.
Expectations for 2026-27
Entering the 2026-27 season, Hughes is expected to anchor the Devils’ defensive pairings, maintaining his reputation as a top shut-down defender. In 2025-26, he frequently played alongside Brett Pesce on the second defensive pairing, though Pesce’s injury forced Hughes to adapt to various partners, including Brenden Dillon and Johnathan Kovacevic.
With both Hughes and Pesce recovering from injuries, their reunion could provide crucial stability. The duo’s mutual reliance on each other’s playmaking and defensive reliability should enhance the Devils’ blue-line cohesion heading into the new season.
Upcoming Milestones
If healthy, Hughes could surpass 300 NHL games in 2026-27, having logged 223 career contests. Recently reaching 100 assists, his next significant milestones—25 goals and 150 assists—remain challenging given his current production trajectory.
Projections for 2026-27
A return to 40+ points appears likely for Hughes, who posted 47 points in 2023-24 and 44 in 2024-25. Missing key games in 2025-26 due to injury, a full season could see him reestablish himself as a top-tier defenseman. His enhanced chemistry with Pesce and improved physical condition position him to drive offensive contributions while maintaining defensive responsibility.
Other Projections
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