New Jersey Devils: 3 players that could be selected at No. 4 overall
No. 1 – LD Luke Hughes – USA-18 (USNTDP)
This seems to be a no-brainer, but the clear number one choice for the New Jersey Devils at No. 4 overall is the selection of potential superstar, and the third brother to be taken in the First Round of the NHL Draft, Luke Hughes.
Like his brothers Quinn and Jack, Luke Hughes has absolutely incredible skill that’s highlighted by insatiable playmaking and superb mobility. When asked what separates him from his two brothers, Luke said: “I’m 6-foot-2”. He is as dangerous with the puck as both of his brothers, but he could end up having the best career out of all of them as he’s touted as the better Hughes brother.
Playing for the U.S. National Team Development Program in the 2020-21 season, Luke tallied six goals and 28 assists in just 38 games played. If this doesn’t speak to the tremendous amount of production he can attribute, then the fact that he did this as a 16-year old against the top players in the United States may help.
Everyone knew that he was destined for the NHL when he committed to the University of Michigan at the age of 14-years old after he totaled 83 points (22 G, 61 A) in 71 games played for the renowned Little Ceasars 15U-AAA team.
While Hughes is the definition of the offensive defenseman prototype, his defensive game is just as, if not stronger, than his offense (which says a lot). His height gives him an advantage against the rush being able to extend his reach to knock away loose pucks and force turnovers in the neutral zone to lead to odd-man rushes.
Though he is only 175 pounds soaking wet, he’s not afraid to play the body on the boards and when he gets to the NHL, adding some weight and more muscle will make him a fiend on the back-end.
Make no mistake, should the New Jersey Devils be gifted Luke Hughes in the 2021 NHL Draft, there’s no doubt that their rise to power will follow shortly. Jack Hughes has struggled to live up to the immense expectations, but it’s hard to blame him. However, with some family on the ice with him, his confidence and comfort will skyrocket which will lead us to see the best hockey he’s played in his life.
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And who knows? With both Luke and Jack on the Devils, maybe we’ll see a family reunion in the black and red in the near future should Quinn decide he wants to join forces with his kin. Again, at No. 4 overall, the Devils’ draft pick is highly contingent upon the Anaheim Ducks. Should they choose to address their offense, New Jersey will be given the keys to a sustainable winning franchise.