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NHL · Injuries · published 2026-10-05T00:00:00+00:00 · via The Hockey Beast

Bissonnette Backs Mleczko After Awkward Hughes Interview

Paul Bissonnette defended A.J. Mleczko after her first-intermission interview with Jack Hughes became a talking point. Mleczko’s on-air remark suggested Hughes protect himself with bubble wrap and plastic utensils because of the hand injury that cost him 18 games last season. Bissonnette said on Spittin’ Chiclets that he sympathized with her and argued the viral exchange may have brought more eyes to a game Hughes won in overtime.

Expanded Detail

EXPANDED:

Bissonnette discussed the exchange on Spittin’ Chiclets, saying he felt for Mleczko and thought she

Expanded detail and Context are AI-generated analysis; the linked article remains the authoritative source.
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This summary is Al-enhanced to contain extended analysis and broader social context. The original is {NAME); the linked article is the authoritative source. Original headline: “Paul Bissonnette has come to reporter’s defense.” Browse more stories.