The New Jersey Devils will have defenseman Luke Hughes available for their upcoming game against St. Louis after activating him off injured reserve. To make space on the roster, the team has reassigned Colton White to their AHL affiliate, the Utica Comets. This move marks a key adjustment in the Devils’ defensive lineup ahead of the season’s crucial stretch.
Hughes’ Season Challenges and Recovery
Following two strong rookie campaigns, Luke Hughes has faced difficulties in the 2025-26 season. The 22-year-old’s contract negotiations extended into the preseason, limiting his participation in training camp. Despite an increase in average ice time to over 23 minutes per game, Hughes has not matched the point totals from his previous seasons. He posted 47 points in 82 games during his rookie year and 44 points in 71 games the following season. This year, Hughes has recorded five goals and 21 assists across 49 games while managing a shoulder injury that sidelined him for nearly six weeks. The Olympic break contributed to limiting his missed games to just ten overall.
Impact on Team and Trade Speculations
The return of Hughes adds depth to New Jersey’s defensive corps, which includes veteran blueliner Dougie Hamilton. Earlier in the season, fully healthy defensive units fueled rumors around potential Hamilton trades. Those discussions paused during Hughes’ injury but may gain momentum again with the Devils now having their top seven defenders fit and ready. However, team reporter Amanda Stein noted that some players are currently battling illness, meaning final lineup decisions will be made close to game time. It remains uncertain which player will sit out to accommodate the returning Hughes.
Colton White’s Role and Performance in the AHL
Colton White was recalled during the Olympic break but has served mostly as a healthy scratch, accumulating 23 games with New Jersey this season. The 28-year-old defenseman has contributed four assists while averaging just over 12 minutes on ice per game. Meanwhile, White has appeared in 10 games for the Utica Comets but has yet to register a point in the AHL this season. His reassignment provides more opportunity for regular playing time as the Devils finalize their roster ahead of the trade deadline.
Significance of Roster Moves Ahead of Trade Deadline
Activating Luke Hughes strengthens the Devils’ defensive unit at a critical juncture, potentially influencing trade deadline dynamics. With Hughes healthy and the core blueliners intact, New Jersey could revisit discussions regarding Dougie Hamilton and other roster adjustments. Meanwhile, Colton White’s move back to the AHL allows the team to optimize depth and player development. These changes reflect the Devils’ strategic approach as they prepare for the season’s final weeks and the looming trade deadline on Friday.
#NEWS: We have assigned D Colton White to Utica (AHL) and activated D Luke Hughes off injured reserve. pic.twitter.com/YWV9hg8M77
— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) February 28, 2026
Luke Hughes is in today for #NJDevils but right now it’s unclear who is coming out as there are players dealing with an illness.
Sheldon Keefe said it will be a gametime decision who comes out. So we’ll have to wait for warmups.
— Amanda Stein (@amandacstein) February 28, 2026
