(Toronto) Jack Hughes is nearing a return to the New Jersey Devils lineup after missing the last month due to injury.
On Saturday, the Devils indicated that Hughes was “very close” to returning to play and that he had chosen to return to New Jersey on Friday evening in preparation for the second half of the season.
“Hopefully after the break I feel good and can finish the year strong,” Hughes said.
The Devils forward took part in some All-Star weekend festivities, taking the opportunity to spend time with his brother Quinn of the Vancouver Canucks.
“I don’t know when the next time I’ll have the chance to do this with Quinn will be, so it was important for both of us that I was there,” said the forward.
Hughes has not played since suffering an upper-body injury on Jan. 5.
He is second on the Devils with 45 points this season.
In 32 games, he collected 15 goals and 30 assists.