Jack Hughes is set to rejoin the New Jersey Devils lineup this Sunday against the Buffalo Sabres after being sidelined for 18 games. The talented forward confirmed his return, which comes after his recovery from finger surgery due to a hand injury sustained during a team dinner on November 12.
Following the morning skate, the 24-year-old center expressed optimism about his comeback, stating, “Yeah, I’m going to play tonight and just ease my way back in.” Hughes has been pivotal to the Devils’ success this season, contributing 10 goals and 10 assists for a total of 20 points before his injury, during which the team struggled, losing 10 out of 18 games.
His return is not only significant for the Devils but also for his chances of being selected for the U.S. Olympic team, as the roster deadline for the Milan Games approaches on December 31.
Additionally, winger Timo Meier is also on track to return, having taken time off earlier this month for a family health issue. With Hughes back on the ice, the Devils, who currently hold the second wild-card spot, face a formidable opponent in the Sabres, who are riding a five-game winning streak.
This promising return for Hughes and Meier could provide the much-needed boost for New Jersey as they aim to regain their momentum in the Eastern Conference.