Jack Hughes was selected 51st overall in the 2022 NHL Draft by the Los Angeles Kings, but his future with the organization was in serious doubt for most of the past year. The team, under its former management, showed little interest in extending a contract to him. That changed drastically after Hughes delivered his best NCAA season to date with Boston University.
The 6-foot forward played all 40 games for BU, producing 18 assists and 25 points, both career highs. He held down a key role on the Terriers’ second line, contributing at even strength and on the power play. Hughes played a pivotal role during BU’s deep postseason run, helping the team reach the NCAA national championship game. He added a shorthanded goal and multiple assists during key victories over top-ranked Ohio State and Penn State.
His late-season impact helped revive his stock within the Kings organization, just in time for a shift in leadership.
Why Jack Hughes is now back in Kings' plans
The signing of Jack Hughes to an AHL contract by the Ontario Reign reflects renewed confidence in his development. It also gives the Kings more time to assess his long-term potential before deciding whether to offer him a full NHL entry-level deal before the August 15 deadline.
New General Manager Ken Holland views Hughes differently than the previous regime did. The AHL contract offers a low-risk opportunity to integrate Hughes into the Kings’ system and assess his performance against pro-level competition.
Now 21 years old, Hughes will get a shot to compete with other promising forwards in Ontario, including Koehn Ziemmer, Kenny Connors, and Jared Wright. His participation in LA’s upcoming Development Camp further shows that the club sees him as a serious candidate for advancement.
What Jack Hughes brings to the Los Angeles Kings system
If Jack Hughes signs an NHL entry-level contract, he would become the sixth player from the Kings’ 2022 draft class to do so. That group already includes forwards and defensemen who are making an impact at various levels of the organization.
Hughes’ game is built on vision, hockey IQ, and calm decision-making under pressure. His postseason production in the NCAA proved that he can deliver in high-stakes moments. That potential, combined with his familiarity with the Kings' development structure through past camp appearances, makes him a valuable depth option for the franchise.
His story reflects the importance of timing and performance, and how a single standout season can turn doubt into opportunity.
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