NEWARK, NJ - The Devils are right back at it in game three of the preseason today with a matchup against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden.
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After today's morning skate, Nico Hischier was asked what he thinks about the roster so far.
"I got a good feeling. The excitement is there for sure."
There are quite a few guys on the Devils training camp roster battling for a permanent position and looking to earn their roster spot. One of those, in particular, is Swedish center Jesper Boqvist. Boqvist will play on the first line with Hischier tonight and Hischier said he is excited to play with him.
"I've played against him in juniors and national team, he's a really good player. He's got a great wrist shot, great hands, and vision. It should be fun to play with him. He's going to push to make this roster for sure," said Hischier.
GUSEV NHL READY
Another player Hischier is familiar with is Russian forward Nikita Gusev. In the first preseason game, Gusev showed no sign of needed adjustment to the NHL style of play, tallying an assist in his Devils debut on Monday night. When asked if Hischier was surprised of Gusev's ability to jump right in, he said he wasn't surprised at all.
"I always say it's still hockey it doesn't matter where. He proved already what he can do in Russia, the National team, he's a really good player. Playing with him should be really fun."
JOHN HAYDEN'S IDENTITY
Heading into this season, forward John Hayden really wanted to focus on developing and establishing himself as a complete player. Hayden even arrived in New Jersey weeks early to make sure he gets accumulated with the staff and players, so far he is impressed with the organization.
"It's been great. I came here a couple of weeks early just to get accumulated, I can't say enough about the players and the staff welcoming me, overall it's been a smooth transition," said Hayden.
This season Hayden's focus is playing to his identity and establishing himself as a complete player that can be relied on in any situation.
"I've learned a lot the last couple of years and I'm looking to continue that, develop my curve and really establish myself. I'm really confident that I can take another step this year," said Hayden. "I want to be relied on in all situations, whether that's killing or being responsible in every zone. That's my primary focus this preseason is to really establish myself as a complete player
-- Sara Giles, NewJerseyDevils.com
