The New Jersey Devils might have a Jack Hughes problem.
And by problem, I mean when he’s not there, the team loses their identity completely.
It’s also a problem how often Jack Hughes isn’t there, but that’s a whole different conversation. Put a pin in that for another time.
But, it’s true. The Devils need to be more than Jack, and to an extent, Brett Pesce. I asked Brenden Dillon about that last night. You can view it below.
Plus, read up on all of yesterday’s news.
Let’s do that hockey.
Devils Trade Rumors & News
New Jersey Hockey Now: It would have been a good night for the Devils to galvanize and overcome the juggernaut Dallas Stars who were coming into the Prudential Center on the second leg of a back-to-back. Instead, they laid an egg, and got no punch from their offense. When the top guys aren’t on the scoresheet, no one is. More from last night’s loss in unspectacular fashion.
More NJHN: Okay, the Devils and Columbus Blue Jackets are creating a legitimate rivalry here. These two teams do not like each other, and it’s not just because of the division they play in and geographical location. Even the head coaches are getting involved, as Dean Evason fires back at Sheldon Keefe’s comments from Monday.
Even More: It’s assumed the Devils are the most likely destination for Quinn Hughes if/when he becomes available. Not that anyone expected there to be limited competition, but Elliotte Friedman explains there’s one team who can potentially give New Jersey a run for their money in potential sweepstakes.
Devils Rink Report: It’s simple, the Devils are missing two key players in Jack Hughes and Brett Pesce. However, a lot of teams are injured, and they’re not plummeting (looking at you, Tampa Bay Lightning). So, how does the Devils become more than that? I asked Brenden Dillon last night 👇🏼
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NHL Trade Talk, News, & National Hockey Now
Forever Blueshirts: In the absence of Adam Fox, the New York Rangers are learning there’s more to Vladimir Gavrikov’s game.
Pittsburgh Hockey Now: The Pittsburgh Penguins might have sent some missed signals. Some injured players traveling with the team doesn’t necessarily mean they’re nearing a return. And one of their top guys is sidelined for a few weeks.
NYI Hockey Now: Welcome back, NYI Hockey Now. Kyle Palmieri is out for the rest of the season. The New York Islanders are in a unique position, but they can add. Here’s five trade targets from the blue line to the forward group.
Philly Hockey Now: Yesterday, Will James looked over which Philadelphia Flyers forwards would step into the role left by the injured Tyson Foerster. It looks like one of his candidates is getting the promotion.
Montreal Hockey Now: The Montreal Canadiens are righting their wrong, and honored defenseman Andrei Markov last night at the Bell Center.
ESPN: First, the arena issues in Milan pointed to a potential disaster that it might not even get done in time to host hockey games for the 2026 Winter Olympics. That’s still in question. However, now we’re learning the ice will be too small?! What gives?!
James is the New Jersey Devils beat reporter for New Jersey Hockey Now on Sportsnaut and the PHWAs New … More about James Nichols