Devils GM Expresses Disappointment Over Unresolved Luke Hughes Contract
New Jersey Devils General Manager Tom Fitzgerald expressed his frustration regarding the ongoing contract situation with defenseman Luke Hughes as the team opened training camp. While the Devils took to the ice on Thursday, Hughes was notably absent. 
The current stand-off revolves around Hughes seeking a five-year contract, while the Devils are hoping for either a bridge deal or a long-term contract. According to TSN’s Pierre LeBrun, there’s a strong expectation that the deal will eventually be long-term, but no agreement has been reached yet.
Fitzgerald admitted his disappointment with the delay, emphasizing the mutual respect between both sides but acknowledging the challenge of the situation. “This is part of the process. We’re working through it together, presenting our perspectives, but unfortunately, we’re disappointed he’s not here. I know he’s disappointed too. We’re staying in touch, and I believe we’ll work it out, but we don’t know when.”
This situation is reminiscent of Dawson Mercer’s contract negotiation last year. Mercer missed the first day of training camp but reached an agreement the next day and joined the team. Fitzgerald noted that missing even one day of training camp could put a player behind, something he believes impacted Mercer’s 2024-25 season.
“We feel there’s urgency on both sides,” Fitzgerald explained. “Every day matters for a player, and we’re working towards getting Luke signed. His agent and I will continue to negotiate to reach a deal that works for both parties.”
Fitzgerald reiterated that Hughes remains the team’s top priority and that the goal is still to secure a long-term deal, not a short-term one.
With the Devils’ preseason schedule quickly approaching, including their first game against the New York Islanders on Sunday, Fitzgerald is hopeful the situation will be resolved in time for Hughes to get acclimated before the games begin. Any further delays in Hughes’ arrival could have lasting consequences for the team.
No Comment! Be the first one.