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New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes is currently being evaluated for a lower-body injury sustained during a game against the Nashville Predators on January 30, 2026. The injury occurred in the first period after 2:27 of ice time across three shifts. [https://www.nhl.com/news/jack-hughes-injury-devils-olympics/c-347844446](https://www.nhl.com/news/jack-hughes-injury-devils-olympics/c-347844446)
Injury Details and Team Impact
Hughes left the game with a trainer at 8:27 of the first period. Devils coach Sheldon Keefe stated that imaging will be conducted to determine the extent of the injury and its impact on Hughes’ availability for upcoming games and the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. [https://www.nhl.com/news/jack-hughes-injury-devils-olympics/c-347844446](https://www.nhl.com/news/jack-hughes-injury-devils-olympics/c-347844446)
the devils are already dealing with injuries to other centers. Cody Glass is questionable for the upcoming game against the Ottawa Senators on February 1, 2026, also due to a lower-body injury. Nico Hischier and Luke Glendening are the only two natural centers currently available in the lineup.
Olympic Implications
Hughes is a member of the Team USA roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics, scheduled to begin on February 12, 2026, with a game against Latvia. [https://www.teamusa.org/olympics/2026/winter/hockey/mens](https://www.teamusa.org/olympics/2026/winter/hockey/mens) His participation in the Olympics is now uncertain pending the results of his medical evaluation.
Devils Playoff Push
The New Jersey Devils (28-24-2 as of January 30,2026) are currently nine points behind the Boston Bruins for the second wild card spot in the eastern Conference Stanley Cup Playoffs. [https://www.nhl.com/standings](https://www.nhl.com/standings) Keefe emphasized the team’s belief in thier structure and process to continue competing for a playoff berth despite the challenges.
hughes’ Injury History
Jack Hughes has a history of injuries throughout his NHL career. He previously missed 18 games in the 2023-24 season with a hand injury and 25 games in 2024-25 following shoulder surgery. He also experienced shoulder issues in the 2023-2
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