The Vegas Golden Knights didn’t just beat the New Jersey Devils on the ice. That match has now ended up costing the Devils far more than they might be able to afford. Why you ask? Well, that’s because Jack Hughes suffered a nasty-looking collision in the second period of that 2-0 loss. As Hughes tried to reduce the deficit, he tripped and smashed shoulder-first into the boards.

When he finally got up, Hughes couldn’t even stand up straight from the pain. Despite the Devils staying hush-hush about the injury, the forecast was grim. “Worst case scenario is that Jack Hughes is going to be sidelined the rest of the season,” broadcaster Trey Matthews predicted. Now, those fears have become a reality, as Hughes himself posted about it on social media.

“Some thoughts I wanted to share. Sports/Life can break you down, can be unfair,” the Devils center wrote on Instagram. Naturally, NHL stars fans flooded the comments section to console the player’s unceremonious end to the season. “Heal up, can’t wait to see you back on the ice soon enough,” commented one fan, encouraging Hughes to not lose hope.

Thankfully, Jack Hughes isn’t giving up despite the devastating, season-ending outcome. While the 23-year-old is sad to see all the “preparation, sacrifice, emotion, training, toughness,” he put into the season go to waste, he is determined to recover and make a comeback. “This is another hill to climb. The more adversity I face, the more I will believe in myself,” added the NHL star.

However, ending his season wasn’t a decision the Devils star took lightly. The New Jersey Devils sat down with Hughes, his family and representatives before deciding he would opt for shoulder surgery on Wednesday. That’s because there’s more than just Jack Hughes’ NHL season at stake. His absence may cost the Devils dearly.

Fans root for Jack Hughes amidst Devils playoff worries

The fan base didn’t shy away from showing its love for the speedy center in the comments. “Sending you good thoughts and healing vibes. The comeback is always better than the setback,” one fan wrote. The wholesome comment envisioned a better future for the Devils players. Yet, the injury could turn out to be a season-ending blow to his team, too.

That is because the Devils perhaps wouldn’t be in the playoff conversation if not for Jack Hughes’ 27 goals this season. He is also tied for the lead with 70 points. So while comments such as, “Hope for a speedy one, Jack. We love watching you!” are uplifting for the player, the injury has put a huge dent in the team’s playoff aspirations.

Hughes’ injury has only added to the Devils’ woes this season. Star goaltender Jacob Markstrom missed 11 games this season, while Nico Hischier missed six. The 23-year-old now joins defenseman Jonas Siegenthaler, who’s been out since February. If you thought that was the end, it’s not. Dougie Hamilton is also out on a week-to-week consideration basis.

Yet, the goal remains the same. New Jersey Coach Sheldon Keefe explained that the team cannot lose focus. “We have to recognize that it’s going to be harder,” said Keefe when discussing their chances of making the playoffs. Yet, the coach remained adamant about giving it that all to qualify for the Stanley Cup. Meanwhile, the fans assured that they’re with Hughes through the recovery.

“Ur strong and gonna get through this. Take it easy on yourself. We are supporting u!” an Instagram user commented. It doesn’t matter whether Jack Hughes is playing or not, the fans will support their star. Others left similar comments, assuring his return to the NHL will be even better than his current 27-goal season.

“We know you’ll come back stronger, speedy recovery brother,” commented the fan. However, Jack Hughes is well aware of his loyal following, who’ve been sending him positive thoughts since the brutal injury on the ice. “To all the devils fans and fans of mine, thank you,” the 23-year-old wrote in the conclusion of his caption.