Jack Hughes to return from finger injury for Devils against Sabres
The New Jersey Devils are set to welcome back key players as they push for a stronger position in the Metropolitan Division. Jack Hughes, Timo Meier, and Arseny Gritsyuk will all return to the lineup this month, boosting the team’s offensive options. The Devils currently sit fifth in their division with a 20-14-1 record.
Jack Hughes has been sidelined since early November after suffering a finger injury in what was described as a 'freak accident.' Initially expected to miss up to two months, he will now return ahead of schedule on December 22, 2025, when the Devils face the Buffalo Sabres. Coach Sheldon Keefe confirmed that Hughes will have no restrictions upon his return. Before the injury, the forward had recorded 20 points (10 goals, 10 assists) in just 17 games.
Without Hughes, the Devils managed an 8-10-0 record. His absence coincided with injuries to other key players, including defenseman Brett Pesce, who returned on December 17 after missing 24 games. Meanwhile, forwards Jonathan Marchessault and Simon Nemec are also nearing comebacks, with expected return dates of December 23 and December 30, respectively.
Timo Meier and Arseny Gritsyuk have helped carry the offence in Hughes’ absence. Meier has 23 points (11 goals, 12 assists) in 30 games this season, while Gritsyuk has contributed 16 points (7 goals, 9 assists) in 31 appearances. Their return alongside Hughes will give the Devils a full-strength attack for the first time in weeks.
The Devils will now field a stronger roster as they aim to climb the standings. Hughes’ early return, combined with the availability of Meier and Gritsyuk, provides a significant boost. The team will look to improve on their 20-14-1 record in the coming weeks.
