For the first time since 2011-12, the New Jersey Devils have won something meaningful.
That, of course, is the draft lottery and the right to pick 1st overall for the first time in franchise history.
The moment of truth. #NHLDraftLottery pic.twitter.com/Epekf0xSs6
— NHL (@NHL) April 30, 2017
Their prize will be Brandon Wheat Kings center Nolan Patrick or Halifax Mooseheads center Nico Hischier.
Patrick entered the season the heavy favorite to go 1st overall and rightfully so. In 2015-16 he tallied 54 goals and 132 points in 92 games (regular season and playoffs), which is nothing short of remarkable.
This season Patrick had a 'down year' and missed a good chunk games -- as well as the World Juniors -- due to injury. Still, Patrick managed 20 goals and 46 points in 33 games.
Meanwhile, Hischier stayed healthy all year and was productive during the regular season (86 points in 57 games), playoffs (seven points in six games) and World Juniors (seven points in five games).
Hischier is the flashier of the two players but Patrick brings a steady, well-rounded game to the table. He may not have the 'wow' factor but he can flat out play.
The Devils certainly have a tough decision on their hands. Luckily, they have a couple months to make it.
Note: I'll be going more in-depth and sharing my thoughts on Nolan vs Nico in the coming weeks. Recent Posts On draft targets for the Devils and buying low on Spooner