Former Michigan defenseman Luke Hughes is anticipated to miss the beginning of the 2024-25 NHL season.
The New Jersey Devils announced on Thursday that 2021 fourth-overall pick Luke Hughes suffered a left shoulder injury earlier this month during training and will be out for six to eight weeks. Although surgery isn't necessary, his return will likely be after the team's regular-season opener on October 4 against the Buffalo Sabres.
Luke Hughes is coming off a remarkable rookie season, tying for second among first-year defensemen with 47 points (nine goals, 38 assists), and finishing third in Calder Trophy voting for the league's top rookie.
A two-time All-American, Luke Hughes turned pro after two seasons with the Wolverines, leading NCAA defensemen in scoring with 48 points as a freshman and adding 39 points in his sophomore year (2022-23).
He, along with his brothers Quinn Hughes, a defenseman for the Vancouver Canucks, and Jack Hughes, a center for the Devils, have been named cover athletes for the EA Sports NHL 25 video game. Quinn Hughes also played two years for Michigan.