Devils may have tipped their hand on who they will take 1st overall
The NJ Devils Director of Amateur Scouting Paul Castron may have tipped his hand as too who they may be selecting at the draft.
Everyone is aware that Kaapo Kakko is tearing it up at the World Championships. On the flip side, Jack Hughes is playing well but getting limited ice time in favor of established NHL vets. As far as Castron is concerned no one should put too much weight on this one tournament.
“I wouldn’t put too much stock into it,” said Castron, adding that the body of work is the most important thing to examine when it comes to the two players. “It’s a long year. Both have impacted the game at whatever level or age group they’ve been on. They’ve been dominant players and are probably headed that way in the National Hockey League as well.”
NHL.com
The Shero – Hughes Connection
Long ago, Ray Shero was an agent and his client was Jack’s father, Jim Hughes. Add to that, Jack has done some skating with current Devils star, Taylor Hall. When you couple that information along with the 3 years of hype on Hughes and the statement just made by Castron the smart money will be on Jack going first.
That leaves the big bodied man child, Kaapo Kakko heading to NY. And what does Castron have to say about him?
“He’s the bigger kid but also very talented. The kid’s a winner. He’s won at every level. “
NHL.com
Meanwhile, Kakko has told NHL.com that he feels like he’s showed enough to go #1 at the draft.
“I’ve played well,” Kakko said. “I haven’t paid much attention to Jack Hughes and his game, but I’m confident I’ve been able to let everyone see my skills and the level of my game. It’s not going to be an easy choice for the teams.”
NHL.com
So like I mentioned earlier, if you’re the betting type, the odds are in Jack Hughes’ favor of going first overall. Who knows, this may be an easy decision for Ray Shero but in fairness to Kakko it may not be a comfortable one.
More About:NYR Features Around the NHL News & Rumors