The New Jersey Devils' coach Sheldon Keefe has been fined $25,000 for his unsportsmanlike conduct towards officials during a game against the Vegas Golden Knights. This incident followed the injury of star center Jack Hughes, who was taken off the ice after a collision that left him visibly in pain. Keefe expressed his frustration over the lack of a penalty call during Hughes' injury incident, which he described as more serious than a previous interference penalty called against his team.

Since that game, there has been no injury update provided by the Devils on Hughes, who leads the team in scoring. Additionally, the Devils have faced other injury challenges with key players, including Dougie Hamilton, who was injured in a recent match against the Dallas Stars, and they've just reinstated goaltender Jacob Markstrom after a prolonged absence due to injury.

Sheldon Keefe, head coach of the New Jersey Devils, received a hefty $25,000 fine from the NHL for unprofessional conduct towards officials that led to his ejection during a game against the Vegas Golden Knights. This incident occurred after star center Jack Hughes sustained a significant injury, which Keefe felt should have drawn a penalty from the referees. Keefe expressed his frustration, particularly regarding Hughes' injury, as he is the team's leading scorer this season.

The Devils have not provided an update on Hughes' condition, which remains a concern for the team as they navigate the season. Additionally, defenseman Dougie Hamilton suffered an injury in a recent game against Dallas, and starting goaltender Jacob Markstrom is only just returning from an extended absence. These injuries put further pressure on the Devils as they strive for playoff contention.

The New Jersey Devils are aggressively pursuing centers as they assess the potential long-term absence of Jack Hughes. With a challenging market, GM Tom Fitzgerald may need to act decisively, especially if Hughes requires surgery. The Devils have made inquiries about Colorado's Mikko Rantanen, indicating a readiness to explore significant trades before the deadline. Meanwhile, the Vancouver Canucks are also on the hunt for a skating center, prioritizing speed and depth on their blue line. The Canucks may target players like Scott Laughton or Brock Nelson, as they look to improve their lineup amid a competitive landscape.

Jacob Markstrom is set to return as the starting goaltender for the New Jersey Devils against the Vegas Golden Knights after a five-week absence due to a knee injury. Coach Sheldon Keefe emphasized Markstrom's vital role as the emotional leader of the team and expressed confidence in his comeback. Markstrom has a solid season record of 21 wins, 9 losses, and 5 overtime losses, alongside a .912 save percentage and a goals-against average of 2.34. His return is crucial as the Devils aim to maintain their playoff position.

Sweden has made changes to its roster for the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off, with Rickard Rakell from the Pittsburgh Penguins stepping in for the injured William Karlsson of the Vegas Golden Knights. Coach Sam Hallam announced the updates, also confirming that Samuel Ersson from Philadelphia will replace Jacob Markstrom due to injury. Rakell, currently leading the Penguins with 23 goals in 53 games this season, has been praised for his all-around game and commitment to defensive play.

Finland has also adjusted its squad, replacing Miro Heiskanen and Jani Hakanpaa with Henri Jokiharju of Buffalo and Urho Vaakanainen of the New York Rangers due to injuries. The U.S. team faces similar issues with Quinn Hughes and Zach Werenski sidelined. Canada is yet to appoint a replacement for Alex Pietrangelo, who withdrew to manage an ailment and prepare for the rest of the NHL season.