P.K. Subban claps back at Steve Valiquette for controversial "Instagram hockey" take on Jack Hughes

P.K. Subban defended Jack Hughes after Steve Valiquette’s comments during Monday's Devils vs. Rangers game. Valiquette accused Hughes of embarrassing Igor Shesterkin with a one-handed move called “The Forsberg.” He called it “Instagram hockey” and suggested it was unnecessary.

The remarks came during MSG Network’s broadcast, where Valiquette criticized Hughes’ attempt despite the Devils’ dominant 5–1 win.

Subban, a former NHL star, disagreed and spoke out on X (formerly Twitter). He called Valiquette’s criticism unfair, saying it attacked Hughes’ character. Subban stressed that Hughes was playing his game and trying to score. He reminded everyone that players often attempt bold moves, especially against top goalies like Shesterkin.

Subban also pointed out the game's real story: the Devils dominated the Rangers at Madison Square Garden. He criticized Valiquette for focusing on Hughes instead of the Rangers’ poor performance. Subban said the Devils outplayed their rivals and deserved credit for their effort.

"... With all due respect to the 46 games that Steve played in the league, Jack Hughes is a premier player in the National Hockey League who has the ability to do things that less than 1% of athletes can do on this planet....," Subban said.

Subban explained that players aim to perform their best at iconic venues like Madison Square Garden. He dismissed the idea that Hughes was trying to embarrass anyone, saying such moments are part of hockey. Subban encouraged the media to celebrate players’ creativity and skill instead of creating unnecessary controversies.

"We need to give him leash to do that," Subban said about Hughes. "As the media, we need to uplift it. That's my job. And that's your job, Steve.

I get the homorism. Let's put that aside. What Steve's really doing, though, is addressing the New York Rangers and that guys should be fired up about the situation..."

Subban concluded fans want to see exciting plays like Hughes. He also encouraged the hockey world to appreciate moments that make the game entertaining and memorable.

Sheldon Keefe praises Devils after 5–1 win over New York Rangers

The New Jersey Devils grabbed a 5–1 win over the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden, backed by Jacob Markstrom’s 38 saves. Jesper Bratt and Jack Hughes spearheaded the offense, combining for seven points.

"When it was time to dig in and stand in front of shots and eat a few of those pucks, I thought the guys did a tremendous job of that," Keefe said postgame, praising his team’s effort (via NHL.com). "There's a number of guys that took their wounds here tonight. They stood their ground."

The Devils blocked 27 shots, including 10 on penalty kills. Their effective powerplay and teamwork powered them to their third consecutive five-goal game.