The New Jersey Devils are preparing to finalize a crucial long-term contract extension for Luke Hughes as the offseason progresses. With just $6.9 million left in salary cap space, general manager Tom Fitzgerald faces the challenge of restructuring the roster this summer to accommodate the promising defenseman’s new deal, which remains the team’s top priority ahead of the 2025-26 NHL season.
Luke Hughes Emerges as a Cornerstone of the Devils’ Defense
Despite only two full NHL seasons completed, Luke Hughes already plays with the confidence and composure of a veteran, establishing himself as a key contributor to the Devils’ blue line. Last year, he delivered his second straight 40-point campaign, averaging over 21 minutes of ice time per game. Known for his agility and offensive instincts, Hughes effectively controls the puck across all three zones, showcasing skills well beyond his years.
Hughes has notably enhanced his power play impact, stepping up as the quarterback for New Jersey’s first unit following veteran Dougie Hamilton’s injury in March. According to Natural Stat Trick data, Hughes was present for 92.06% of the team’s high-danger scoring chances during the power play. Additionally, he posted an 85.48% Corsi and an 88.91% expected goals-for percentage, underscoring his strong possession and scoring influence.
On the defensive end, Hughes pairs effectively with Brett Pesce, a seasoned defense partner. Together, they limited opponents to just 2.41 goals against per 60 minutes at even strength. Their combined presence contributed to 32 goals by the Devils in even-strength situations last season, with 17 of those coming on high-danger chances, demonstrating their critical role in both defense and offense.
Anticipated Contract and Financial Considerations
Hughes entered the NHL under a three-year entry-level contract with a modest cap hit of $925,000, but he became a restricted free agent on July 1. The Devils have already extended a qualifying offer, and discussions hint at a substantial increase in his salary. Analysts expect Hughes to sign an eight-year contract averaging around $8 million annually, reflecting his growing value.
With the NHL salary cap forecasted to increase soon, locking Hughes into a long-term agreement now makes financial sense for New Jersey. Opting for a shorter deal would likely mean higher costs during his peak years later. Hughes has shown a clear preference to stay in New Jersey alongside his brother, Jack Hughes, which makes securing this deal essential for the organization.
Thus far, Fitzgerald’s offseason moves have demonstrated fiscal prudence, as seen in the efficient re-signing of goalie Jake Allen to a $1.8 million average annual value contract. The Hughes extension is expected to be one of the last major contract signatures the Devils complete this summer.
Obstacles Standing in the Way of the Extension
The primary hurdle the Devils face in locking Hughes in for the long term is the team’s limited cap space, which currently restricts their ability to add other depth forwards for the bottom six. To create the necessary room for Hughes’ sizable raise, New Jersey must trade at least one established player.
New Jersey has already parted ways with Curtis Lazar, Nathan Bastian, and Erik Haula while acquiring depth scorers like Connor Brown and Evgenii Dadonov to bolster scoring balance. Continuing to trade from the current roster, Ondrej Palat appears to be a likely candidate for departure. His inconsistent performance and contract size, which is seen as disproportionate to his impact, would free approximately $6 million should he be traded, providing cap relief and the potential to add a third- or fourth-line center.
Additionally, rumors circulate about the possibility of trading Dougie Hamilton, the team’s top offensive defenseman. Moving Hamilton could open up nearly $9 million in cap space. Although he holds a no-trade clause, it has been reduced to a 10-team no-trade list, increasing the chances of a trade depending on front office plans and market interest.
Balancing the Devils’ Roster Moving Forward
Securing Luke Hughes with a long-term extension would solidify the Devils’ defensive core and affirm their commitment to developing young talent. However, this move requires careful budget management and likely a significant trade to stay cap-compliant. Hughes is poised for a major salary hike, which makes the financial maneuvering more complicated than a bridge deal option.
Despite these challenges, Luke Hughes has proven to be one of New Jersey’s most reliable defensemen and an essential figure in the franchise’s future. The coming weeks will be critical for the Devils as they balance roster changes and salary cap constraints to keep Hughes, ensuring continued competitiveness in the NHL.