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Hughes' Injury Status a Major Concern for Devils

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Wednesday, March 11th 2026 at 11:30 GMT by National Hockey League
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CANADA

Jack Hughes' Status: A Lingering Concern

The biggest question mark hanging over the Devils is the status of star center Jack Hughes. Remaining day-to-day with an upper-body injury, Hughes' absence looms large. While he did participate in a solo skate before the morning practice, he didn't join the full team session, suggesting he's still not fully recovered. Hughes' dynamic playmaking and scoring ability are central to the Devils' offensive attack. Losing him significantly impacts the team's ability to generate consistent scoring chances, and forces Coach Lindy Ruff to shuffle lines and rely on secondary scoring options.

The impact of Hughes' potential absence extends beyond just offensive output. He's a key penalty killer, a faceoff specialist, and a leader in the locker room. The Devils' depth will be truly tested if he's unable to suit up, placing added pressure on players like Nico Hischier, Jesper Bratt, and Erik Haula to elevate their game.

Ondrej Pavelec: An Opportunity to Shine

With Hughes' status uncertain, the focus also shifts to the net. Ondrej Pavelec has been named the starting goaltender for tonight's game, marking his first start since March 2nd. This decision, according to Ruff, isn't about a lack of confidence in the primary starter, but rather a strategic move to give Pavelec an opportunity to contribute and gain valuable experience during a critical stretch of the season.

Pavelec's statistics this season - a 4-5-2 record with a .915 save percentage and a 2.84 goals-against average in 11 games - demonstrate his capability. However, stepping into the starting role against a high-powered offense like Carolina presents a significant challenge. The Hurricanes are known for their relentless forecheck and ability to create traffic in front of the net, making Pavelec's performance crucial to the Devils' success.

Defensive Fortification: Containing Carolina's Attack

The Devils recognize that shutting down the Hurricanes' offense is paramount. Recent matchups between these two teams have highlighted the Hurricanes' ability to exploit defensive weaknesses, and Ruff has emphasized the need for improved defensive structure. The Devils' defensive core, led by Dougie Hamilton and Jonas Siegenthaler, will need to be airtight, effectively blocking shots, winning puck battles, and limiting Carolina's scoring opportunities. A key component will be disciplined play to avoid penalties, as the Hurricanes boast a potent power play.

Beyond Hughes: Stepping Up the Offensive Production

While the focus is on defense, the Devils also know they can't win relying solely on keeping the score low. If Hughes is unable to play, others must step up offensively. Bratt and Hischier will be expected to lead the charge, but the team needs contributions from the entire forward group. Players like Haula, Dawson Mercer, and even the depth forwards will need to capitalize on their scoring opportunities. Generating offense will require a combination of strong forechecking, creative passing, and relentless pursuit of rebounds.

Injury Landscape: A Growing List of Concerns

The Devils aren't just dealing with Hughes' injury. Kurtis Zeller is also sidelined with an upper-body injury, further depleting the team's defensive depth. Miles Wood is listed as questionable, adding another layer of uncertainty to the lineup. These injuries underscore the importance of depth and resilience, and the Devils will need to rely on players stepping up to fill the void.

Looking Ahead: Playoff Implications

The game against the Hurricanes has significant playoff implications for both teams. The Metropolitan Division is incredibly competitive, and every point matters. A win tonight would not only boost the Devils' confidence but also strengthen their position in the standings. Conversely, a loss could see them fall further behind in the playoff race. This matchup is a true test of the Devils' mettle and a preview of the intensity that awaits them in the postseason. The team's ability to overcome adversity, adjust to injuries, and execute their game plan will be crucial to their success, not just tonight, but throughout the remainder of the season.