The New Jersey Devils open up the 2017 Prospects Challenge tonight with a clash against the Buffalo Sabres.
The Devils brought 27 players (15 forwards, nine defensemen, three goaltenders) to the three-game mini tournament and the expectation is all of them will see game action over the next few days.
Let's take a look at a few players to keep your eyes on:
Center - Nico Hischier
Hischier will be playing his first competitive game(s) wearing Devils colors and it's going to be a treat to watch. He is easily the most talented player in this tournament and, given his competitive spirit, you can bet he'll be going at full speed every time he touches the ice. Buckle up.
Center - Michael McLeod
During the 2nd half of the season -- and playoffs -- McLeod was among the best players in junior hockey. He was always going to get a look in camp and that holds especially true with Travis Zajac out of the lineup for the foreseeable future. With a strong camp, he could earn a spot and that starts tonight.
Winger - Nikita Popugaev
The big winger received glowing reviews from his coaching staff, and media, for some preseason performances with Prince George. He will no doubt be looking to continue his strong play against three teams that combined to pass on him eight different times at the draft in June.
Defenseman - Will Butcher
Butcher feels his game is NHL-ready and this tournament will give us the first opportunity to test that theory. If he isn't clearly a level above team's (mostly) teenage prospects, he's probably not ready for a regular shift in the NHL. And the Devils *really* need him to be.
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Tonight's game is at 7 p.m. Eastern and can be watched via stream on the Devils website. If you have other obligations or plans and can't watch live, the full games are expected to be archived and highlight packs will be created as well.
Stay tuned for more coverage throughout the weekend.
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