Devils 6, Sabres 2: Making history

Jack Hughes found the scoresheet for the 97th time this season, breaking Patrik Elias' franchise record for most points in a year.

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A few notes following New Jersey’s 6-2 win over Buffalo:

Quiet flashes

That’s what we saw from Luke Hughes in his NHL debut. He wasn’t rushing the puck up ice, dancing in space, attacking from the blueline in, and making the dynamic plays we so often saw throughout his college career.

He played a toned down, simplified game while he got his first taste of NHL hockey. That was to be expected and is by no means a concern.

Even with the training wheels still on, Hughes showed flashes – particularly when breaking out of the defensive zone.

Hughes’ outlets were mostly good and he made some crafty plays while under pressure. Very early in the game he had a Sabre coming down on him with a full head of steam. He turned his back and made it look like he was going to skate behind the net before reversing a pass along the boards for a clean exit. It was those subtle yet effective plays I noticed most.

There were a couple instances Hughes’ lack of strength showed up while defending down low. He was also a little hesitant to really get involved and create in the offensive zone. Those things will come with time, be it Hughes adding muscle or gaining confidence as he becomes more experienced.

All in all, I thought it was a competent but unspectacular debut from Hughes. We saw some of the reasons the Devils should be very excited about him; and some of the reasons he is likely going to be the 8th defenseman come playoff time.

As I’ve said for weeks – if not months – I don’t expect him to get playoff reps unless there’s an injury to a puck mover and/or the team is in desperate need of an offensive spark.

Jack deserved more