NHL Playoff Update: Hughes to Debut, McCann Out, and Panthers Absentees

Sportsnet Staff reports that New Jersey Devils head coach Lindy Ruff plans on giving rookie defenceman Luke Hughes his playoff debut in Game 3. Hughes, the fourth-overall pick from 2021, had an impressive two regular-season games where he contributed one goal and an assist. Meanwhile, Jared McCann from the Seattle Kraken may not be available for their Western Conference semifinal series against Dallas on Sunday. Although the leading scorer has been back in practice, coach Dave Hakstol doesn’t expect him to play as he’s still working through his “injury protocol.” On the other hand, Florida Panthers’ players Sam Bennett, Aaron Ekblad, and Josh Mahura are expected to be in the lineup for Game 3 despite being absent from practice on Saturday, according to Colby Guy of Florida Hockey Now.