Report: Devils unveil plans for 1st overall pick

With the NHL Entry Draft less than a month away, New Jersey Devils general manager Ray Shero sat down with NHL.com’s Julie Robenhymer to discuss his team’s gameplan for the biggest draft in the team’s history.

Thanks to the NHL Draft Lottery the Devils currently hold the first overall selection and Shero and his scouting staff seem intent on using it to draft a high powered offensive forward, but whether that’s Nico Hirschier or Nolan Patrick is anyone’s guess. Interestingly, Shero also admitted that he’s taken phone calls from inquiring GMs on potentially trading the pick.  

“I’ve gotten a couple calls the past week from teams just letting us know they'd be interested if we were to decide to trade it,” said Shero to Robenhymer. “We even had one get a little more specific about what they'd be willing to offer, and that's helpful and a little more engaging.” 

So, while he’s had at least one offer, Shero isn’t exactly “shopping” the pick to other GMs. But, is he even interested in moving the pick? “I’m open to anything right now,” said Shero, but was quick to add, “but my focus is picking the best player for our organization and if there's something to think about, we'll definitely think about it.”

It certainly looks like Shero and the Devils are leaning towards using their selection, but haven’t ruled out the possibility of moving the pick for the right return. Maybe he’s simply holding his cards close to the vest? In any case, it will make for some intriguing drama at this year’s NHL Entry Draft.