In an exclusive interview with The Hockey News, New Jersey Devils forward Jack Hughes shares his thoughts on rookie defenseman Seamus Casey.

Jack Hughes sat on the bench at O2 Arena in Prague, Czechia, watching New Jersey Devils defenseman Seamus Casey get swarmed by Erik Haula, Tomas Tatar, and Dawson Mercer after scoring his first career NHL goal. 

It would be the first of three goals the rookie defenseman would score in his first eight NHL games. 

New Jersey's front office, coaching staff, teammates, and fans were taken aback by Casey's impressive play. He quarterbacked the power play and collected four points with the poise of a player well beyond his years.

One person who was not taken aback? Hughes. 

The Devils' star forward was familiar with Casey's game from his time playing with his brother, Luke Hughes, at the University of Michigan.

"I kind of knew what he was like," Hughes said. "Obviously, just watching him and Luke so many times. I knew his game.

"I knew what he was about."  

Despite knowing Casey's on-ice capabilities, one thing surprised the 2019 first-overall pick. 

"I was surprised how fast he got to (his game)," Hughes continued. "His ability to make plays and move in the offensive zone how he did in college."

Before being assigned to the American Hockey League, The Hockey News asked Casey if any of his teammates had taken him under their wing. Given the rookie's familiarity with the Hughes family, it made sense that Jack earned his own shoutout. 

"Jack has been unbelievable," Casey said. "He has been great. I am really close to Luke and, through that, Jack. He has been helping me through everything." 

So, does Hughes consider Casey an honorary little brother? 

"He is not there yet," Hughes said with a laugh. 

While the 23-year-old center describes Casey as a great kid, it will be "plenty of years" before Casey can be considered another little brother.  

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