He played college ice hockey for two years with the University of Michigan of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), reaching the Frozen Four both seasons.

[2] In March, Hughes recorded one goal and six assists in seven games and was subsequently named the Hockey Commissioner's Association Rookie of the Month.

[13] Hughes made his playoffs debut on May 7, at home against the Carolina Hurricanes, assisting on two goals in an 8–4, Game 3 win for the Devils.

Following the season he was named a finalist for the Calder Memorial Trophy[16] and was voted unanimously to the All-Rookie Team.

[17] Hughes represented the United States at the 2019 World U-17 Hockey Challenge where he recorded one goal and three assists in six games and won a silver medal.

[18] On May 5, 2022, Hughes was named to the United States men's national ice hockey team to compete at the 2022 IIHF World Championship.

[21] During the tournament, at which he served as team captain, he recorded four goals and one assist in seven games and won a bronze medal.

[25] She also played for the United States women's national ice hockey team, and won a silver medal at the 1992 World Championship.