Devils C Jack Hughes being evaluated for lower-body injury

New Jersey star center's status unclear for upcoming games, including Olympics

Jan. 30, 2026 at 10:47pm

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New Jersey Devils star center Jack Hughes is being evaluated for a lower-body injury sustained during Thursday night's game against the Nashville Predators. His availability for Saturday's game against the Ottawa Senators, as well as the upcoming Winter Olympics, is uncertain as the team awaits the results of further medical imaging.

Why it matters

Hughes is a key player for the Devils, who are fighting for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. His potential absence could significantly impact the team's performance. Additionally, Hughes was named to the U.S. Olympic hockey team, so his injury could also affect the national team's preparations for the Winter Games.

The details

Hughes was on the ice for just 2 minutes and 27 seconds on Thursday before exiting the game. Devils coach Sheldon Keefe said the team is still evaluating the injury and does not believe it is a long-term issue. The team also has been without center Cody Glass, who is questionable to play on Saturday after being hit by a shot earlier in the week.

  • On Thursday, January 30, 2026, Hughes was injured during the Devils' game against the Nashville Predators.
  • The Devils have three games before the NHL takes a break for the Winter Olympics, which begin on February 12, 2026.

The players

Jack Hughes

A 24-year-old center for the New Jersey Devils who was the 1st overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft. He has 387 career points in 404 regular-season games and is also on the U.S. Olympic hockey team roster.

Sheldon Keefe

The head coach of the New Jersey Devils.

Cody Glass

A center for the New Jersey Devils who has 13 goals and 5 assists in 42 games this season.

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What they’re saying

“The only update is that he's still getting evaluated. In the next little bit, he's going to get some imaging and get a better idea of what's happening. Until we have those results, we won't know his status in terms of travel and the situation going forward.”

— Sheldon Keefe, Devils Coach

“As I said yesterday, the sense is it's not anything serious. We just have to make sure and that's what he's doing right now.”

— Sheldon Keefe, Devils Coach

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.