Devils Rumors: Luke Hughes Contract Negotiations Trending In Right Direction

The New Jersey Devils appear to be heading in the right direction in signing their young defenseman, Luke Hughes. There is no risk of him wanting to leave, but the sides were pretty far apart on the term. Hughes wanted a five-year deal to match up with the conclusion of Jack Hughes' contract while the Devils want short or max term.

At this time, it "sounds like it's making a little bit of progress. I think it's long-term," said David Pagnotta. This would be a massive win for the Devils and if it is considered long-term, that should mean six or more years, extending past when Jack is expected to be a UFA. This would also mean that New Jersey would have a big advantage of being the team all of the Hughes brothers want to end up on.

Luke Hughes had a big season for the Devils in 2024-25, stepping up when he needed to and proving that he can be the number one defenseman with Dougie Hamilton out of the picture, even at 22 years old. Hughes had seven goals and 44 points in 71 games and actually finished with the most points among defenseman on the team last season.

Hamilton still has three years left on his contract at $9 million AAV and there will be a battle for roster spots and ice time this season. It seems like someone should be on their way out sooner than later. The Devils will likely need to move someone to sign Hughes to what he should be getting long-term. The longer the deal, the higher the AAV for stars who are expected to get much better by the end of it.

The longer this contract negotiation drags out, the less time Hughes will have to prepare for the season and it will likely impact him as it does nearly every player who doesn't get the full training camp build-up to the season.