LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Melbourne Storm supporters were alarmed on Thursday night when Dally M medallist Jahrome Hughes exited the game with a shoulder injury after attempting to tackle James Tedesco.
Although Hughes managed to get up initially, he quickly left the field and was taken to the hospital, where his shoulder was relocated.
In a silver lining for the Storm, Hughes returned to the team hotel following their resilient 34-30 victory, which keeps their minor premiership aspirations alive.
Despite his absence, Harry Grant stepped up impressively, showcasing the team's resolve even without other key players like Cameron Munster and Ryan Papenhuyzen.
However, coach Craig Bellamy expressed concern regarding Hughes' prognosis, stating, "I don't think it's overly good news...
the longer they're out, it's a bigger problem...
it stretches the ligaments and muscles around the joint."
The injury's severity remains uncertain, with reporter Michael Carayannis suggesting he could potentially return this season while opting to delay surgery.
He noted on SEN Radio, "Jahrome Hughes returned to the team hotel last night with his shoulder back in place...
The Storm are confident there is no structural damage to that shoulder, which indicates they may be able to nurse him through this backend of the year."
Nonetheless, questions linger about the risk of rushing Hughes back into play and whether his shoulder is capable of enduring the challenges of finals football.
Carayannis remarked, "It's a ticking time bomb...
at some point, you would assume, he is going to need surgery to repair it.
He might be able to play six games, he might be able to play six minutes...
very early indications are that the Storm have some hope Hughes will be back this year."