New Jersey Devils forward Jack Hughes has been unexpectedly sidelined with what the team is calling a "non-hockey" hand injury, reportedly sustained during a team dinner on Thursday night.
The Unfortunate Incident
The Devils organization confirmed through social media platform X that their star player is currently being evaluated after suffering the unusual injury. The team stated they would provide updates as they become available, leaving fans and analysts speculating about the severity of the situation.
According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, sources indicate that Hughes slipped and cut his hand during the team gathering in what's being described as a "fluke accident." The timing couldn't be worse for the Devils, who have enjoyed a strong start to the season.
Impact on Devils' Strong Start
Hughes will definitely miss Saturday's game against the Washington Capitals, with his return timeline remaining uncertain. This setback comes at an unfortunate time for both the player and the team.
The 2019 first overall draft pick had been dominating the early season with an impressive 10 goals and 20 points through just 17 games. His outstanding performance has been instrumental in New Jersey's remarkable 12-4-1 start, which has them sitting comfortably in first place in the Metropolitan Division.
Hughes was coming off a two-assist performance in Wednesday's 4-3 overtime victory against the Chicago Blackhawks, demonstrating his crucial role in the team's success.
NHL's History of Bizarre Injuries
While Hughes' dinner mishap might seem unusual, it joins a long list of strange but true NHL injury stories that have sidelined players throughout league history.
Some of the most memorable freak injuries include:
- Erik Johnson tearing knee ligaments while golfing when his foot got caught in a golf cart
- Joe Sakic breaking three fingers while operating a snowblower
- Darren Turcotte missing 13 games after injuring his eardrum with a cotton swab
- Larry Robinson hurting his leg while playing polo on horseback
- Wade Belak being sidelined by a spider bite that prevented him from wearing his skate
- Brian Leetch breaking his ankle after slipping on a sidewalk while exiting a taxi
- Brent Sopel injuring his back while picking up a cracker from the floor during playoffs
- Dustin Penner somehow managing to hurt his back while eating pancakes
As the Devils continue their strong campaign, all eyes will be on Hughes' recovery timeline and how the team adapts to playing without their offensive catalyst. The organization and fans alike hope this unusual setback will be short-lived, allowing their star player to return to the ice where he's been nothing short of spectacular this season.
