Devils' Jack Hughes leaves game with injury 2 weeks before US opens play at the Olympics

The 24-year-old center left Thursday's game against the Predators with a lower-body injury.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 2:55am

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New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes left Thursday night's game against the Nashville Predators in the first period due to a lower-body injury and did not return. Coach Sheldon Keefe said he did not believe the injury was serious, but Hughes would be re-evaluated on Friday. The Devils went on to beat the Predators 3-2 in overtime.

Why it matters

Hughes is a key player for the U.S. Olympic hockey team, which is set to begin play at the Milan Cortina Olympics in two weeks. Any significant injury to Hughes could impact the U.S. team's chances at the Olympics.

The details

Hughes skated just three shifts in the first 7:30 of the game before heading to the locker room. He had previously missed five weeks earlier this season after undergoing surgery on his right thumb. In his 16 games back, Hughes had 14 points, including two assists in the Devils' previous game.

  • On January 30, 2026, Hughes left the game against the Predators in the first period.
  • The U.S. Olympic hockey team is set to begin play at the Milan Cortina Olympics in two weeks.

The players

Jack Hughes

A 24-year-old center for the New Jersey Devils who is a first-time Olympian on the U.S. men's hockey team.

Sheldon Keefe

The head coach of the New Jersey Devils.

USA Hockey

The national governing body for the sport of ice hockey in the United States.

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What they’re saying

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— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.