Devils' Hynes: Hischier has played his way into top-6 role

There's no question as to whether Nico Hischier will play in the NHL this season.

The 2017 first overall draft pick has put on a show during the preseason, scoring four goals in as many games and leading the New Jersey Devils with seven points.

As a result, he's played his way into a prominent role with the club, according to head coach John Hynes.

"Right now he's a top-six forward. He's played his way and earned his way into that role," Hynes said Friday, per Chris Ryan of NJ.com. "We didn't start him there, but he played his way into that. I think he's done a nice job, also, when he's gotten the opportunity to play on the power play. And we think he's been able to play center very well."

It can take time for a center to transition from junior hockey to the professional level, and some never find their way, ending up on the wing. Hischier, Hynes says, is up to the task.

"It looks like he's been able to handle the responsibilities of a centerman with not too much of a problem. There's certain things he can adjust to, but that's where we see him right now."

Hischier will make his NHL regular-season debut against Colorado on Oct. 7.

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