New Jersey Devils superstar Jack Hughes officially reached his 400th career NHL game against the Edmonton Oilers. Discover his record-breaking stats, injury updates, and why he’s the face of the league’s youth movement.
The NHL is officially in the era of the young superstar, and at the center of that movement is a name every hockey fan knows. On January 20, 2026, during a high-stakes matchup against the Edmonton Oilers, Jack Hughes officially skated in his 400th career NHL game. At just 24 years old, the New Jersey Devils’ center has transformed from a highly touted prospect into a cornerstone of the league.
Jack Hughes: Career Stats & Milestone Overview
| Milestone | Statistics / Details |
| Total Games Played | 400 |
| Total Career Points | 382+ (Entering Game 400) |
| Career Goals / Assists | 152 Goals / 230 Assists |
| Draft Position | 1st Overall, 2019 NHL Draft |
| National Records | USNTDP All-Time Points Leader (228) |
| Current Team | New Jersey Devils |
The Incredible Journey of Jack Hughes to Game 400
Reaching 400 games at the age of 24 is no small feat, especially considering the physical toll the NHL takes on its players. Since being selected first overall by the Devils back in 2019, Jack Hughes has carried the weight of a franchise on his shoulders. He made his debut at just 18 years old, appearing in 61 games during his rookie season and showing flashes of the elite puck-handling and vision that would eventually make him a household name.
Despite his young age, Jack Hughes has consistently produced at an elite level. Before the puck dropped in Edmonton for his milestone game, he had already amassed 382 points. His ability to manipulate defenders and create space in the offensive zone is a rarity, even among the league’s top 1% of talent. For Devils fans, watching No. 86 reach this mark is a reminder that the “rebuild” is officially over—this is a team led by an established veteran who is still technically in his early twenties.
Overcoming Adversity and the Hand Injury Recovery
The road to 400 games hasn’t always been smooth for Jack Hughes. This season alone, the star forward was forced to miss 18 games due to a hand injury sustained in what many called a “freak accident.” Any time a player of his caliber goes down, the energy in the arena shifts, but Hughes proved his resilience. He returned to the ice on December 21 against the Buffalo Sabres and didn’t miss a beat, scoring a goal in his first game back.
Even with the missed time, Jack Hughes entered the Oilers game ranked third on the Devils’ roster with 31 points. His recent performance against the Calgary Flames showed he is back at 100%, as he tallied seven shots on goal and a crucial assist on Simon Nemec’s overtime winner. His health is the most important factor for New Jersey as they push for a deep playoff run this spring.
Leading the NHL’s Youth Revolution
The milestone reached by Jack Hughes highlights a broader trend in professional hockey: the league is getting younger and faster. When Hughes entered the league, he was the face of the future. Today, he is a mentor-figure for the next wave of talent like Connor Bedard, Macklin Celebrini, and Matthew Schaefer.
What sets Jack Hughes apart from many other young stars is his pedigree. Before joining the Devils, he shattered records at the USA National Team Development Program (USNTDP), holding the all-time records for assists (154) and points (228). He has transitioned that “winner” mentality to the professional stage, proving that elite skill can dominate even in a league traditionally known for size and grit.
Family Drama: Supporting Luke Hughes Through Injury
While the 400-game mark is a moment for celebration, it comes at a stressful time for the Hughes family. Jack’s younger brother, Luke Hughes, who is a standout defenseman for the Devils, is currently sidelined. Luke appeared to suffer a significant shoulder injury during a battle for the puck in Calgary.
While Jack Hughes focuses on leading the offense, his brother is currently consulting with specialists in Colorado. Reports suggest a possible dislocated shoulder, which would be a massive blow to the Devils’ blue line. The brothers have a famously close bond, and Jack’s leadership will be tested as he helps steer the team through the emotional and tactical challenge of playing without one of their best defenders.
Conclusion
Reaching 400 NHL games is a testament to the durability and talent of Jack Hughes. He has evolved from a teenage prodigy into the definitive face of the New Jersey Devils. As the team finishes their four-game road stretch with stops in Vancouver and Seattle, all eyes will be on Hughes to see how he builds on this latest milestone. With his injury woes seemingly behind him and his scoring touch as sharp as ever, the next 400 games for Jack Hughes look to be even more spectacular than the first.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How old was Jack Hughes when he hit 400 games?
Jack Hughes reached the 400-game milestone at just 24 years old. He has been playing in the NHL since he was 18.
2. What are Jack Hughes’ total career points?
As of his 400th game, Jack Hughes has recorded over 382 points, consisting of more than 150 goals and 230 assists.
3. Did Jack Hughes win any awards at the start of his career?
While he hasn’t won a Hart Trophy yet, Jack Hughes was the 1st overall pick in 2019 and holds the all-time scoring records for the USA National Team Development Program.
4. What happened to Jack’s brother, Luke Hughes?
Luke Hughes is currently dealing with what appears to be a dislocated shoulder. He is undergoing further evaluation to determine how much time he will miss from the Devils’ lineup.
5. Who do the Devils play next after the Oilers game?
Following the Edmonton game, Jack Hughes and the Devils will face off against the Vancouver Canucks on January 23, followed by a trip to Seattle to play the Kraken.
