This is New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes' second appearance at the All-Star Game, but that doesn't mean it's any less exciting than the first.
“I've been here before, and I'm really having a special year right now,” Hughes told me in Fort Lauderdale. “Every All-Star Game you get to go to is obviously a major blessing, but this one being my second one is pretty cool. I hope to have a lot more in the future.”
With the way Hughes has been playing, recognition continuing into the future is likely something he can count on. The 5-foot-11 center signed an eight-year, $64 million contract with the Devils on Nov. 30, 2021, and with the team continuing to climb the standings after a rough start to the season, a Stanley Cup appearance in 2023 isn't out of the question.
Deep in the Hart of Texas… Jack calls game. pic.twitter.com/5XSXcmNO9r