The New Jersey Devils are set to welcome back Luke Hughes and Brett Pesce from injury as they prepare to face off against the Detroit Red Wings. Hughes, 21, suffered a shoulder injury during offseason training, while Pesce, 29, broke his leg during the playoffs last season with the Carolina Hurricanes.
The Devils have been holding their own without these key defensemen, boasting a record of 5-3-1. However, they have struggled defensively in their past two games, conceding a total of 14 goals. The return of Hughes and Pesce is expected to bolster the team’s defense and provide a much-needed boost.
Luke Hughes, a promising young talent, had an impressive season last year with nine goals and 38 assists in 82 games. He was even a finalist for the Calder Trophy, an award given to the NHL’s top rookie. On the other hand, Brett Pesce brings a wealth of experience to the team, having scored 39 goals and 159 assists in 627 games with the Hurricanes.
Pesce’s signing as a free agent during the offseason was a significant move for the Devils, with the defenseman securing a lucrative six-year $33 million deal. Having been drafted by the Hurricanes in 2013, Pesce has proven himself to be a reliable and skilled player on the ice.
The return of Hughes and Pesce is not only a positive development for the Devils but also a promising sign for fans. With their skill, experience, and leadership, the two defensemen are expected to make a significant impact on the team’s performance moving forward.
As the Devils gear up to face the Red Wings, all eyes will be on Hughes and Pesce as they make their season debuts. Their presence on the ice is sure to inject a new level of energy and confidence into the team, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive game. Stay tuned for what promises to be a thrilling matchup between these two talented teams.