Max Pacioretty Takes Out New Jersey Devils Star Jack Hughes With a Brutal Hit

Tuesday night was a packed slate in the NHL, but perhaps the most intriguing matchup was between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the New Jersey Devils, although it involved just three goals throughout a thrilling overtime battle.

Despite outscoring the Maple Leafs 38-14, the Devils managed just one goal on Anthony Stolarz, with an Auston Matthews OT winner helping them pick up the incredible 2-1 victory.

There were many moments throughout the game, most provided by goaltender Anthony Stolarz, but during the game, Max Pacioretty made his mark on the matchup as he took out Jack Hughes with an incredible hit.

From some angles however, it appears Pacioretty clipped Hughes in the head, but with Hughes falling to the ice, it's very clear that the intent of the veteran was to take him on the body, which he did for the most part.

While some Devils players weren't happy with the call, it was certainly not the most egregious hit we've seen this season, with Maple Leafs forward Ryan Reaves among the players that have delivered much worse hits this season.

Unfortunately, in today's NHL, the inconsistency in the officiating and the Department of Player Safety makes it almost impossible for fans to decide whether or not they can celebrate a hit or whether or not a potential suspension is on the way.

For now though, it appeared to be a clean hit for the most part, and with the Maple Leafs getting great goaltending, physical play and clutch goals from their captains, it's safe to say that they could be building into a very good season in 2024/25 as they once more have Stanley Cup ambitions.