Contract extension talks between the New Jersey Devils and defenseman Luke Hughes have hit a snag due to disagreements over the term of the new deal. As a restricted free agent, Hughes is eligible for a new contract, but the Devils and his representatives have differing visions for the length of the agreement.
The Devils are reportedly seeking either a short-term "bridge" contract, around three years, or a maximum eight-year deal. However, Hughes' camp is pushing for a five-year contract to align his free agency with that of his brother, Jack Hughes, who is also a teammate on the Devils. Jack Hughes signed an eight-year, $64 million contract in 2021, which will make him an unrestricted free agent in 2030. If Luke signs for five years, both brothers would be unrestricted free agents in the same year.
While there was an initial conflict, recent reports suggest there may be progress, with both sides potentially agreeing to a seven-year contract. However, the annual salary and cap-related details still need to be worked out.
The Devils drafted Luke Hughes fourth overall in 2021, following the selection of Jack with the first overall pick in 2019. In his NHL career, the younger Hughes has recorded 93 points in 155 games and averaged over 21 minutes of ice time per game last season. He has quickly become a key part of the Devils' defensive core, and the team views him as a building block for the future.
From the Devils' perspective, securing Hughes for the long term makes sense. An eight-year contract would keep him in New Jersey through his prime years, providing stability and allowing the team to maximize his potential. A shorter bridge deal carries the risk of Hughes' value increasing significantly, potentially making him more expensive to re-sign in the future.
However, Hughes' camp may prefer a five-year deal to maintain flexibility and align his free agency with his brother. This would give both players more control over their future and the potential to play together long term, whether in New Jersey or elsewhere.
The contract impasse comes amid speculation about the possibility of all three Hughes brothers uniting on the Devils, including Quinn Hughes, who currently plays for the Vancouver Canucks. While this scenario remains hypothetical, the Hughes brothers' desire to play together could be influencing Luke's contract negotiations.
According to AFP Analytics, Hughes projects to be worth $8.38 million per season on a six-year deal. As of late August 2025, the Devils have approximately $6.1 million in cap space.
The Devils and Hughes' representatives will need to find common ground to resolve the contract dispute. The term of the contract is a critical factor, as it will impact both the team's long-term planning and Hughes' future. A resolution that satisfies both sides is essential to ensure that Hughes remains a key part of the Devils' organization for years to come.
