New Jersey Devils Full 7-Round Mock Draft

5th Round, 130th Overall

Devils select Bear Hughes, C, Spokane Chiefs

Did the name itself stand out before anything? Yes, of course, however, there are a lot of reasons the Devils will fall in love with Bear Hughes. For one, they’ve watched a ton of him so far. He plays on the Spokane Chiefs, who also employ star defenseman and Devils draft pick Ty Smith. He had 47 points in 61 games last year, seemingly out of nowhere. There’s not much data on Bear Hughes, except for the fact that he practices in the offseason with Tampa Bay Lightning forward Tyler Johnson.

Bear obviously has the same last name as Devils center Jack Hughes, but they couldn’t have more different paths. Hughes is one of ten children. Instead of having multiple NHL brothers, he’s the only one with professional dreams. His dad was more into football and wrestling than hockey. Bear was playing hockey in his basement while Jack was learning how to be a superstar. Much different paths that might take them to the same place.

This kid has an incredible story. The Spokesman Review did a good job telling it. However, he’s more than just a good story. He’s been very good for the Chiefs this year, winning the teams Rookie of the Year award. He got even better as the season wore on. Hughes had 12 straight multi-point games to end the season.