Jack Hughes (Image Credits: Imagn)

Devils vs Predators: What Happened To Jack Hughes? Latest Update On New Jersey’s Forward

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Swati Bhatia | Last updated Jan 30, 2026 1:05 AM ET

The New Jersey Devils hosted the Nashville Predators on Thursday night in what turned out to be an important win, but the result was quickly overshadowed by concern around their star player. Center Jack Hughes left the game early and did not return, raising worries for New Jersey and Team USA.

The 24-year-old left the ice twice during the first period, each time heading back to the locker room. After briefly returning and taking one shift, he exited again. When the Devils came out for the second period, Hughes was nowhere to be seen, and he did not return for the rest of the game.

Jack Hughes remains absent for #NJDevils as they emerge from the tunnel for the start of the second period.

Jack left in the first for a bit, came back, took one shift and left again.

Still unable to come back, it appears.
— Amanda Stein (@amandacstein) January 30, 2026

His injury is also a concern for the United States, as Hughes is part of the Olympic roster alongside his brother, Quinn Hughes.

Sheldon Keefe Says Jack Hughes’ Injury Doesn’t Appear Serious

Jack Hughes (Image Credits: Imagn)

After the game, Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe opened up about Hughes’ injury and said the star center “tweaked something” during the game. Keefe told reporters that he does not believe the injury is serious, which came as a relief for a fan base that has already seen Hughes miss significant time this season.

Earlier in the 2025 season, Hughes missed 18 games after undergoing surgery for a freak finger injury that happened during a team dinner in Chicago on November 13. For now, Hughes should be considered day-to-day.

Despite losing Hughes early, the Devils showed resilience on the ice. Nico Hischier scored the overtime winner to seal a 3-2 win over the Predators. Dougie Hamilton and Jesper Bratt also scored for New Jersey, while goaltender Jacob Markstrom stopped 27 of the 29 shots he faced.

New Jersey will now prepare to visit the Ottawa Senators on Saturday. All eyes will be on the injury report, as the Devils will be hoping to have Hughes back in action as soon as possible.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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