The New Jersey Devils have faced widespread criticism during the 2025-2026 season, with fans relieved to shift attention to the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics men’s hockey events beginning Wednesday. Despite this, the team remains under scrutiny, not only for on-ice issues but also for questionable social media content involving a Photoshop joke about Quinn Hughes. The Devils, known for a running gag since Hughes requested a trade from Vancouver, have repeatedly cropped him out of photos featuring Jack and Luke Hughes, but their latest post went too far, drawing significant negative attention.
The controversial image is meant to celebrate Jack Hughes, showcasing him alongside Matthew and Brady Tkachuk. However, a poorly executed Photoshop edit reveals a faint outline where Quinn Hughes once stood. Whether this was intended as humor or an oversight, it landed badly, especially as the team tries to regain support after a disappointing season. The glaring error highlights a disconnect within the Devils’ social media team and raises questions about their approach.
The tweet in question simply stated, “Ciao, Jack.#MilanoCortina2026 #WinterOlympics” while displaying the edited photo.
Confusion and Criticism from Media and Fans
The social media post puzzled many, including Devils reporters who admitted unfamiliarity with the ongoing joke. Ryan Novozinsky commented,
“I think it’s a joke? Has to be, right?”
while James Nichols added succinctly, “I have questions.” These responses underline the discomfort and uncertainty the post created among those covering the team.
Rival Teams Join in the Mockery
The Minnesota Wild, the franchise that acquired Quinn Hughes, weighed in with their own lighthearted jab, remarking,
“we’d be more concerned about the obvious fashion don’t here but that’s just us.”
Their comment, focusing ironically on the photo’s style choices, added fuel to the discussion and pointed out the perceived immaturity behind the Devils’ attempt at humor.
Consequences of a Poorly Timed Joke During a Difficult Season
Though some may view the ongoing Photoshop gag as harmless fun, it symbolizes larger problems for the Devils. The team’s effort to inject levity into a challenging season falls flat when directed at a player no longer with the club, especially amid the global stage of the Winter Olympics.
Continuously revisiting Quinn Hughes in such a manner risks alienating fans further and diminishes the organization’s credibility. With Matthew and Brady Tkachuk still representing the Devils at high levels, these social media missteps reflect poorly on the franchise’s professionalism at a critical time.
Ultimately, the Devils’ Photoshop controversy emphasizes the importance of thoughtful communication, especially when the stakes involve both fan engagement and team reputation. As the season progresses, how the organization manages its online presence and fan relations could play a crucial role in rebuilding trust and focus.
Ciao, Jack.#MilanoCortina2026 #WinterOlympics pic.twitter.com/yjCfTIiKOc
— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) February 9, 2026
I think it’s a joke? Has to be, right? https://t.co/gqAwnKw9xg
— Ryan Novozinsky (@ryannovoNHL) February 9, 2026
I have questions. https://t.co/1W8h0EVjx2 pic.twitter.com/KZDupTL3vj
— James Nichols (@JamesNicholsNHL) February 9, 2026
we’d be more concerned about the obvious fashion don’t here but that’s just us https://t.co/Uc5vn77meT
— Minnesota Wild (@mnwild) February 9, 2026
