The 2021-22 NHL season has already produced an unbelievable moment.
New Jersey Devils’ forward Jack Hughes scored an incredible overtime winner against the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday evening. The celebration might have been even better.
After already scoring once in the game, Hughes got a two-on-one opportunity with teammate Ryan Graves in overtime. The young Devils’ superstar showed tremendous patience to outwait both defenseman Connor Murphy and goalie Kevin Lankinen to score the OT winner.
Hughes celebrated his highlight-reel overtime goal by throwing his stick into the stands.
Video:
Jack Hughes OT winner. What a goal. pic.twitter.com/FghGsrL9uj
— Brady Trettenero (@BradyTrett) October 16, 2021
Here’s an awesome fan view of the goal:
JACK HUGHES IN OT pic.twitter.com/tFNNqLwnIx
— Katie (@Hallsynhl) October 16, 2021
Hughes scored the goal 57 seconds into the extra session. The Devils won 4-3 in their season opener at Prudential Center. Hughes was the first star of the game.
When asked about the celebration after the game, Hughes said, “That was hilarious, I don’t really know what happened there.” “Some of my buddies have been texting me about it.”
Hughes is primed for a breakout season after registering 11 goals and 31 points in 56 games last season. The Devils made some big additions this offseason, including blueliners Dougie Hamilton and Ryan Graves. The team finished at the the bottom of the East Division in 2020-21.
Jack Hughes is one of the NHL’s best rising stars, and it’s awesome to see him bring the entertainment in his first game of the season.