Jack Hughes Criticized for Blunt Response to Reporter's Joke

New Jersey Devils player Jack Hughes drew criticism from viewers for his sharp response to a reporter's joke during a mid-game interview on Thursday night. ESPN's A.J. Mleczko attempted humor during the first intermission of the Devils' season opener against the Philadelphia Flyers, referencing a past injury Hughes sustained at a team dinner.

Mleczko asked, "Well, it's great to see you healthy. Let's wrap you in bubble wrap and use plastic cutlery this year. That sound good?" Hughes, however, did not react positively to the remark.

"I mean, I think that's a weird joke mid-game," Hughes replied before disengaging from the interview. The interaction occurred while the Devils were trailing the Flyers, a factor some suggested may have contributed to Hughes's subdued reaction. Hughes had previously scored the overtime winning goal in the gold medal game for Team USA at this year's Olympics in Italy.

Social media users accused Hughes of being overly sensitive. Comments included suggestions that he "should lighten up" and that he was overreacting to a "light-hearted joke."

Earlier in the year, Hughes, 25, reportedly ended his relationship with singer Tate McRae, 23. According to reports, Hughes cited "red flags" as the reason for the split, though sources close to McRae suggested she was the one to end the relationship.

Despite the post-game interview controversy, Hughes had a successful night on the ice. He scored with 1:37 remaining in overtime to secure a 3-2 victory for the Devils against the Flyers in their home opener. The goal was assisted by Jesper Bratt. Last season, Hughes led the Devils with 77 points and was second on the team with 27 goals, even while missing 21 games due to a hand injury. The team's record of 8-13-0 without him highlighted his importance as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 draft.