Devils call ‘Hughes’ again in first round

When Martin Brodeur called Jack Hughes’ name as the first-overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, by the Devils, the center smiled, hugged his family and walked to the stage.

When Tom Fitzgerald called Luke Hughes’ name as the fourth-overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft, again by the Devils, the defenseman’s older brother Jack, screamed, shouted and jumped for joy, elated by the news.

“That might be the happiest I’ve ever seen [Jack Hughes],” Luke Hughes told the media after he was selected.

When the Devils chose Luke Hughes on Friday night, it was a welcome surprise for the Hughes family.

“As you saw my brother’s reaction, we had no idea of the news,” Luke said. “I am so excited.”

The Devils are creating what the organization hopes is the next Henrik and Daniel Sedin — a duo of brothers to lead the franchise for years to come. Luke Hughes will help a struggling Devils’ defense, one that surrendered 189 goals in 56 games last year, the fifth-most in hockey.

Luke, from Canton, Mich., recorded six goals, 26 assists and 34 points in 38 games with the U.S. National Team Development Program last year. His 0.89 points per game led all defensemen in the program. Rangers defenseman Adam Fox had 0.92 points per game in 2015-16, his draft year.

Luke, who is considered an elite skater and gritty competitor, was ranked No. 4 in NHL Central Scouting’s ranking of North American skaters. But he was patient Friday night, learning from past experience not to look ahead.