Quinn Hughes, the Vancouver Canucks' standout defenseman, will not participate in the 4 Nations Face-Off championship as an injury replacement for Team USA. Hughes was initially set to join the team following the injury of Charlie McAvoy but remains sidelined with an oblique injury. Despite hopes for a comeback, Hughes is yet to be cleared for full contact play. Team USA will instead utilize Tage Thompson and Brett Pesce as injury insurance for the championship match against Canada.

Hughes expressed frustration over his inability to compete, stating it was a difficult decision to withdraw. His absence is keenly felt, especially as he leads the Canucks in points this season. U.S. coach Mike Sullivan had indicated the potential for Hughes's return, but ultimately, travel and health considerations hindered his participation in this critical matchup. Team USA aims to defend their previous victory against Canada while missing one of their top talents.

Injuries have plagued Team USA as they prepare for the gold medal game at the 4 Nations Face-Off, prompting them to consider reinforcements from the New Jersey Devils and Buffalo Sabres.

With key players suffering injuries, including Boston Bruins' Charlie McAvoy and Vancouver Canucks' Quinn Hughes, the team has tapped Brett Pesce and Tage Thompson as potential replacements. However, they cannot officially join unless the roster is shorthanded. Currently, Team USA has sufficient players, creating uncertainty around their availability.

As the matchup against Canada approaches, injuries to stars like Brady and Matthew Tkachuk raise further doubt, yet both express determination to play. Thompson and Pesce, if given the opportunity, could significantly impact the game with their respective skill sets, enhancing the U.S. squad's chances for victory.

The 2024 NHL free-agent signings are being re-evaluated as the season progresses. Notably, only three of the 18 players initially graded re-signed with their teams, while others like Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault moved to the Nashville Predators.

Some players are thriving, such as Sam Reinhart, while others like Brady Skjei and Jonathan Marchessault are struggling. The assessments reflect their current performances and the impact on their new teams.

In a thrilling match, the New Jersey Devils overcame a 1-0 deficit to defeat the Chicago Blackhawks 4-1, highlighted by Jack Hughes' 13th goal of the season. The Devils showcased their offensive prowess in the third period, scoring three goals within just over two minutes.

Dawson Mercer and Timo Meier contributed significantly with a goal and an assist each, while Nico Hischier also found the net. Goalie Jacob Markstrom made 17 saves, further solidifying the Devils' strong defensive play.

Jack Hughes led the New Jersey Devils to a 3-1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings, ending the Kings' six-game winning streak. Hughes scored the decisive goal late in the third period and contributed two assists, marking his 12th goal of the season.

Ondrej Palat and Brett Pesce also found the net for the Devils, while Kings defenseman Jordan Spence opened the scoring. New Jersey's Jacob Markstrom made 12 saves, improving his season record.