Devils’ Luke Hughes Discusses ‘Whirlwind’ Week & Return to New Jersey

On Thursday, at 10:27 a.m., Luke Hughes smoothly skated onto the ice at RWJBarnabas Health Hockey House, marking his first day on the ice at New Jersey Devils training camp. 

Skating as an extra along with Kurtis MacDermid and Stefan Noesen (lower body), during the team’s morning skate, Hughes worked through each drill, with a determined expression. 

He chose to particpate in both the club’s 10:30 a.m. skate and 11:45 practice that ran for approximately 45 mintues. 

“It feels great (to be back),” Hughes shared. “Obviously, I was waiting a little bit, but really excited to be back and happy that I am in New Jersey for the next seven years.”

On Oct. 1, the 22-year-old restricted free agent signed a seven-year, $63 million extension to remain in New Jersey through 2032.

“There was never a doubt during the negotiations that Luke wanted to remain a Devil,” his agent Pat Brisson told The Hockey News. “We looked at his comps and what he has accomplished thus far. Where the cap is going, we felt over seven years, it was a very fair deal for both sides.” 

“I know he loves living here, loves playing here,” Jack Hughes said on Thursday. “I think it was a mutual fit. He’s really excited to be a part of this group for a long time. He is excited with the deal he got, and he is most excited about being a part of the group and getting ready for the season.”

The younger Hughes brother said the past few days have been a whirlwind as he spent time in both New Jesey and at home in Michigan. 

“I got here yesterday,” he expained. “I was in and out though. I had the NJ charity gala on Monday night. They do great work, and it is really easy to work with them. I was here for that, and then flew out and skated on Tuesday morning with my dad, and then got (the contract) done Tuesday late night. I skated again with my dad in the morning, and then flew out. Kind of whirlwind but really excited to be here, and fired up for the season.”

‘There…