New Jersey Devils 2026-27 Player Projections: Jack Hughes
The New Jersey Devils face significant pressure for the 2026-27 season. Despite a strong roster, a late-season collapse cost them a playoff spot last year, a situation they aim to avoid repeating.
As we preview individual player performances, Jack Hughes is next in our forward group projections.
2025-26 Performance
Hughes played 61 games in the 2025-26 season, scoring 27 goals and 55 assists for 77 points. He missed time due to hand surgery following an off-ice incident.
He assisted in the season's first game and scored his first goal on October 16. October proved strong with a hat trick on the 21st. He netted a second hat trick against the New York Rangers on March 7. Hughes recorded a point in 43 of his 61 games.
Hughes also represented Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics, contributing three assists and four goals in six games, including the gold medal-winning overtime goal against Canada. This cemented his rising stardom.
Expectations for 2026-27
The expectation for Hughes in 2026-27 remains consistent: point production. He outscored linemate Jesper Bratt by 66 points despite playing 21 fewer games. Hughes has been the Devils' most reliable scorer, and that's expected to continue.
Hughes will likely remain on the second line with Bratt on his wing. The Devils added Luke Evangelista, who scored 77 points last season, to likely play right wing on their line. This trio presents a formidable offensive threat.
Upcoming Milestones
Hughes enters the season with 429 career games. He is on pace to reach 500 games before the season ends, potentially hitting 513 if he plays all 84 games.
With 168 goals, 260 assists, and 428 points, reaching 500 career points is a realistic goal for him this season.
Hughes is also likely to reach 200 career goals, 300 career assists, and 500 career points before the season concludes. He has averaged over 70 points per regular season since 2022-23, a streak he'll aim to maintain as his game develops.
Projections for 2026-27
A bold prediction for Hughes is his first 100-point season. He came close in 2022-23 with 99 points in 78 games. Staying healthy and playing alongside Evangelista and Bratt should allow him to achieve this significant milestone.
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