The New York Rangers have struggled recently, losing six of their last seven games, including a significant defeat to their rivals, the New Jersey Devils, who triumphed 5-1.
The Devils led 2-0 at the first intermission, prompting criticism from Rangers analyst Steve Valiquette, who accused Devils forward Jack Hughes of showboating. During the game, while the Devils were ahead, Hughes attempted a flashy move during a breakaway against goalie Igor Shesterkin, who successfully made the save. Valiquette interpreted Hughes’ action as an attempt to humiliate Shesterkin and the Rangers.
“I don’t like that because Hughes set out to embarrass Shesterkin,” Valiquette said, mentioning how Hughes slowed down and switched to one hand. Despite Hughes’ failed attempt, the Rangers remained within two goals. Valiquette was surprised there was no reaction from the Rangers towards Hughes’ behavior, reflecting on how players like Colton Orr would have reacted in the past.
Since both Valiquette and Orr retired—he in 2010 and Orr in 2015—the game has indeed evolved. Furthermore, since Shesterkin made the save and the Rangers were only down by two goals, the situation was not as dire.
After the game, Hughes expressed his confusion over the criticism aimed at him. “I don’t even know what that means,” he responded. Valiquette described Hughes’ play as “Instagram hockey,” and the Devils’ social media team had some fun by sharing a clip of their five goals against the Rangers, overlaying Valiquette’s comment. Although Hughes didn’t score on that controversial breakaway, he still had a strong performance with two goals and an assist in the second period.
