The Devils selected Swiss-born center Nico Hischier, 18, with the first overall pick in the NHL draft Friday at the United Center in Chicago.
There had been no consensus between Hischier or Winnipeg-born center Nolan Patrick as to who would go No. 1. It marked the first time since the franchise moved to New Jersey in 1982 the Devils owned the first overall pick. Previously, Kirk Muller (1984) and Brendan Shanahan (1987), both selected second overall, had been the highest picks in team history.
The 6-foot-1, 179-pound Hischier, who may project as a left wing in the NHL rather than a center, rocketed up the scouting rankings this past season after scoring 38 goals with 48 assists in 57 games for Halifax in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and being named that league's rookie of the year. Hischier also wowed scouts with his four goals and three assists in five games for Switzerland in the World Junior Championships.
A strong skater and stickhandler who is an excellent playmaker because of his poise with the puck on his stick. Credited as the hardest worker on his team, Hischier is known mainly as a dynamic offensive player but his defensive game and forechecking abilities have been underrated.
The Devils entered the draft with 10 picks overall. Rounds 2-7 will be on Saturday.
