The New Jersey Devils opened training camp this week without one of their most important young players. Defenseman Luke Hughes is still without a contract after completing his three-year entry-level deal. Talks are ongoing, but both sides remain apart on terms and value.
Is Luke Hughes Headed Toward a Long-Term Future in New Jersey?
Negotiations between Hughes and the Devils have been progressing, but are far from finished. According to David Pagnotta of “The Fourth Period,” both sides are focused on a long-term deal.
David Pagnotta: “There seems to be more optimism surrounding Hughes and the New Jersey Devils – both sides appear to be focused on an eight-year extension and are working around the dollars” – The Fourth Period (9/20)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) September 21, 2025
Early discussions suggested Hughes preferred a shorter term, closer to five years, to align with brother Jack Hughes’ current contract. The Devils, meanwhile, are pushing for maximum term. That difference has kept the deal from crossing the finish line, though optimism is growing.
General manager Tom Fitzgerald told reporters that re-signing Luke Hughes has been his “number one priority” all summer. “We will be signing him,” he said, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to a long-term contract.
Despite missing camp, Hughes is not expected to explore other options. He and the Devils have expressed a shared goal of keeping him in New Jersey for years to come.
Contract Talks and Cap Questions for Luke Hughes
The holdout comes after Hughes established himself as New Jersey’s top defenseman in 2024-25. He posted seven goals and 44 points in 71 games, leading all Devils blueliners in scoring.
His role expanded significantly with Dougie Hamilton sidelined, as Hughes proved he could handle first-pairing minutes at just 22. That performance has made his extension a pressing issue for the front office.
Still, cap space remains tight. The Devils currently have just over $6 million available, ranking near the middle of the league. While offseason rules allow teams to temporarily exceed the cap by up to 10 percent, they must be compliant by Opening Night. That leaves management with little room to maneuver unless a roster move is made.
RELATED: New Jersey Devils Boss Sets Record Straight on Contract Negotiations With Luke Hughes
Contract projections suggest Luke Hughes could earn between $7 million and $7.5 million annually on a deal running seven or eight years. Comparisons to teammates like Jack Hughes, who earns $8 million, and Timo Meier, at $8.8 million, suggest Hughes is due a significant payday.
A short-term bridge deal is also possible, but given the organization’s preference for security, it is viewed as less likely.
Missing training camp can leave a player playing catch-up once the season begins, something both Fitzgerald and head coach Sheldon Keefe acknowledged. Keefe said he views the situation like an injury, which is disappointing but manageable. In his absence, other defensemen will get extended looks.
The Devils open the regular season on October 9 against the Carolina Hurricanes. Fitzgerald insists the deal will be done before then. Until it is, Luke Hughes remains unsigned, leaving fans waiting for official clarity on the long-term future of New Jersey’s most promising young defenseman.
Pay him what he’s worth. Quit stalling