5 reasons why New Jersey Devils will win Stanley Cup

4. Nico Hischier is developing into a star

The Devils were supposed to pick sixth-overall in last year’s draft, only to win the NHL lottery. General manager Ray Shero had to then choose between Nolan Patrick and Nico Hischier, and he picked the latter.

While Patrick has been good with the Philadelphia Flyers, Hischier has proven to be the right choice. The 19-year-old played all 82 games for New Jersey (the only player to do so) and amassed 52 points, including 20 goals and a +10 rating for the season. The Swiss product has produced in all situation for the Devils, playing on both the power play and penalty kill as well.

Perhaps most impressive has been Hischier willingness to park himself in front of the opposition’s net. At 175 pounds, Hischier has taken a beating but continued to go to the dirty areas, something that has resulted in 22 points over New Jersey’s final 33 games. The rookie wall is always a concern, but the youngster has avoided it.

Playing as the first-line center between Kyle Palmieri and Taylor Hall, Hischier has been given ample opportunity. The result has been one of the best two-ways players in the game, as the teenager appears to have a few Selke Trophies in his future.