Jack Hughes brushes off reporter’s joke, scores overtime winner for Devils
Jack Hughes responded curtly to ESPN reporter A.J. Mleczko’s joke about wrapping him in bubble wrap and using plastic cutlery during the first intermission of the Devils‑Flyers game on October 2, 2026, before skating back into action.
Hughes, who has dealt with a shoulder surgery and a finger injury that required surgery last season, said, "I think that’s a weird joke mid‑game," and turned his attention to the game.
"I think that’s a weird joke mid‑game," Hughes said before heading back onto the ice.
The comment came as Mleczko attempted to lighten the mood following Hughes’ recovery from a severe cut finger sustained at a team dinner. The reporter’s humor referenced the injury, suggesting a protective bubble‑wrap suit for the forward.
Rather than linger on the exchange, Hughes powered the Devils into overtime and scored the game‑winning goal, delivering a dramatic finish to a tightly contested match. After the goal, he tossed his stick into the crowd, where a fan in a Team USA‑branded jersey caught it, prompting a viral social‑media post from the team’s official account.
Social media reactions were mixed. Some users accused Hughes of being dismissive, while others defended his focus, noting the intense environment of a live NHL game. The incident highlighted the delicate balance athletes navigate between media interaction and performance pressure.
Hughes’ performance also marks a continued rebound after a challenging offseason. Earlier in February, he scored the gold‑medal‑clinching goal for Team USA at the Winter Olympics, reinforcing his status as a key player for both club and country.
The Devils’ victory improves their standing in the Eastern Conference, and the team’s social‑media accounts have embraced the light‑hearted moment, posting, “Can’t keep him wrapped up,” in reference to Hughes’ dismissal of the joke.
As the season progresses, Hughes’ ability to stay focused amid off‑ice distractions will be essential for the Devils’ playoff ambitions.
