New Jersey Devils forward Jack Hughes is one of the best players in the National Hockey League. He is also incredibly exciting to watch both on and off the ice.
As a result, he was selected to be their representative at the 2024 NHL All-Star Game in Toronto. He was also selected to be co-captain of Team Hughes with his brother Quinn.
Unfortunately, Jack has dealt with an injury since January 5th and hasn't played since. Not shockingly, he had to be replaced at the All-Star Game.
Jesper Bratt of the New Jersey Devils is going to go in his place. This is a well-deserved honor for Bratt as he has 19 goals and 31 assists for 50 points so far this season.
The New Jersey Devils will see Jesper Bratt at the 2024 NHL ASG
Bratt is one of the most exciting players on the team as few players can drive offense the way that he can. From being a late-round draft pick to an All-Star, New Jersey has a good one in Bratt.
Jack Hughes will still co-captain Team Hughes with Quinn. They will select their team on Thursday night along with the other captains (alternate captains), Connor McDavid (Leon Draisaitl), Nathan MacKinnon (Cale Makar), and Auston Matthews (Morgan Rielly).
Hughes was originally selected to be in the Skills Competition as well. Instead of Bratt taking his place there, the NHL announced that Mat Barzal is going to be that guy. There is a lot of flare that comes with a player like Barzal so this move makes sense.
Everyone knows how badly Hughes wanted to participate in this event but his health for the remainder of the Devils season is far more important. There is a good chance that he returns when the season resumes but it is not worth the risk if something is still bothering him.
Hughes also didn't play before the break and his team was struggling during that time. It would be a bad look to show up for the exhibition All-Star Game.
Bratt deserves this opportunity and he is going to fit right in with the rest of the league's top stars. Hopefully, he and Hughes return ready for a big second half when they are done in Toronto.