On Tuesday afternoon, the New Jersey Devils returned 2015 first round selection, Pavel Zacha, to
his junior team of the OHL, Sarnia Sting.
By Patrick Comia
In a day dominated by the news of a past Devils great having his jersey being retired by the organization, a future Devil was sent down for a year of growth and seasoning.
The sixth overall draft selection of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft this past June, was returned to his junior team, Sarnia Sting of the Ontario Hockey League.
The #Devils have sent their 2015 1st round pick Pavel Zacha back to Sarnia of the #OHL
— SiriusXM NHL Network (@SiriusXMNHL) October 6, 2015
Pavel Zacha was one of the players that was on the cusp of making his NHL debut on Friday. He impressed John Hynes and the coaching staff in training camp and preseason; however, the decision to do what was best for the young player weighed heavily on the first-year head coach and general manager Ray Shero.
But, the right move was made in deferring the 18-year-old back to juniors for another year. Zacha has time, as do the Devils to wait patiently with the young man. The team is not going anywhere, in the near future.
Zacha’s old team, the Sting, are glad to welcome him back with open arms.
He's back ?? pic.twitter.com/vmefsKdVS2
— Sarnia Sting (@StingHockey) October 6, 2015
Zacha rejoins his junior team in Ontario, where he first played North American hockey after coming over from the Czech Republic. Last season with the Sting, he scored 34 points in 37 games, and was one of the team’s leading scorers.
All while adjusting to the pace of play and North American style of hockey.
His reassignment is not a demotion or a slight, in any way. The team seeks for him to gain more experience, and develop his all-around game. Zacha won’t gain it by sitting on the bench, playing 10 minutes a night. At least with junior club, he will be able to get more ice time, and hopefully become a top offensive producer.
No need to rush, young man.
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