Observations:

Dec 2017 – With over a third of the season over Nico Hischier has lived up to the lofty expectations of him. Hischier has produced at a 0.67 point per game pace this year so far and has been electrifying at both ends of the ice. Devils fans should be hoping that like last year in Halifax, Hischier will improve his play in the second half of the season and continue to rack up points. Goal scoring has been a challenge for the young Swiss centre but his playmaking skills have made for some highlight reel plays. A boost in offence in the second half of the season should get Hischier’s name back in the Calder running. – Grant Frey

The injury to Travis Zajac has allowed Hischier a chance to play a prominent role in the Devils offense to start the season. The first overall pick has been capitalizing on this chance by playing some dominate hockey in his first two games and recorded his first point, an assist against the Buffalo Sabers. The Swiss center has not looked out of place in his first couple NHL games and has been a catalyst for offence as he uses his great vision and skating abilities to find open spots on the ice. We should expect to see see some highlight reel plays from number 13 on the Devils as his game continues to grow at the NHL level. Grant Frey

July 2017 – Nico Hischier’s performance at last week’s development camp proved to the New Jersey fans why he deserved to be their first ever first overall selection. Hischier dazzled the fans with his fantastic skating abilities and a couple of highlight reel goals. After the camp ended Hischier signed his entry level contract and is eligible to receive the max amount of bonuses. With a few spots open in New Jersey’s top nine, Hischier is expected to make the team and will have every opportunity to play big minutes for the club. New Jersey was third last in goals for last season, but with Hischier’s speed and creativity they should be improving in that category. Grant Frey

February 2017 – A breakout performance at the World Junior made Hischier a household name and legit contender for first overall in the 2017 NHL draft. His ascension up draft rankings began with a noticeable performance at the U18 tournament at Grand Forks where demonstrated some explosive offensive skill and speed. Hischier again made an impression at the Top Prospects game where he competed head-to-head against Nolan Patrick.  He has elite offensive skill and vision and has excellent skating and speed. He is a very complete player who has consistency, makes very good read and reacts to the play and can set the pace of the play and should translate very well at higher levels. Hischier will make history as the highest drafted Swiss player and could arguably be the best fantasy option in the 2017 draft class.  Peter Harling

Fantasy Outlook: A+

First line center potential if not a franchise player.

Footage:

Nico Hischier 2016-17 WJC Highlights:

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