The New Jersey Devils missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs. This, in turn, caused New Jersey to fire its general manager, resulting in brand new leadership. Throughout all this turmoil, NHL insider Elliote Friedman has hinted at Devils locker room strife after the Quinn Hughes trade that was rumored to have not taken place, according to Devils’ insider Dom.
“Interesting note from Friedman on Quinn Hughes and the Devils,” Dom wrote on X.
In the podcast, Friedman noted potential dissension within the locker room about the possibility of a Hughes trade. While some may have been excited about the idea of having three Hughes on one team, others allegedly were opposed to it. The Devils allegedly attempted to trade for Hughes. However, it did not go through. The Vancouver Canucks traded Hughes to the Minnesota Wild instead.
When the season began, many expected the Devils to contend for the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Instead, they struggled. The Devils were inconsistent throughout the season and were unable to string together victories to help them thrive. Some believed there were distractions. Likewise, Jack Hughes dealt with several injuries and missed time.
The three Hughes brothers playing together have been the center of discussion for many hockey fans and insiders. But that did not transpire, and New Jersey was left in the cold. With the talented defenseman under contract with the Wild for at least one more season, the buzz will grow. The possibility remains in place that all three brothers could play on the same team for the first time in the NHL. But for now, the Devils must move forward and quash any potential locker-room strife.
The New Jersey Devils missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs. This, in turn, caused New Jersey to fire its general manager, resulting in brand new leadership. Throughout all this turmoil, NHL insider Elliote Friedman has hinted at Devils locker room strife after the Quinn Hughes trade that was rumored to have not taken place, according to Devils’ insider Dom.