The New Jersey Devils have signed their 2023 fourth round pick Cam Squires to an entry level contract.
The 19-year old right winger has not only played, but been an impact player in all three of his QMJHL seasons with the Cape Breton Eagles, so far.
His first year saw him spread his wings with 34 points (16+18) over 68 games on a struggling Eagles team that finished last in the league.
It wasn't until his draft year, when Squires really took flight as he nearly doubled his totals all around with 64 points (30+34) in another 67-game season. His play was good enough to hear his name called at the 114th pick, during the fourth round of the 2023 NHL Draft by the New Jersey Devils.
Scouts and pundits generally spoke very favourably about this pick. citing both his play on the ice and personality off the ice.
"He’s one of the most intelligent players in the draft, with advanced instincts on and off the puck, a great attention to detail, and a mind and feel for spacing and timing on the ice," said The Athletic's Scott Wheeler in his final rankings for the 2023 NHL Draft. Wheeler had him ranked 90th, but mentioned in his write-up that he contemplated having him higher. TSN's Craig Button had him listed at 83rd in his final ranking.
Off the ice, Cam Squires would win the QMJHL's 2022-23 Humanitarian award for his work with the local chapter of the Boys and Girls club. There, he would create the 'Squires Squad,' which saw him donate season tickets to the charity to allow for families to come see the team play. Squires also met with kids to help mentor them and organize a ball hockey tournament.
This year, Squires would further elevate his game as he led the Eagles in points (72) and goals (34). Meanwhile, his 39 assists would land him for third best on the team behind Cole Burbidge and Brayden Schmitt.
By the playoffs, Squires would ascend as he would score well above a point-a-game with 20 points (9+11) over just 14 games. His 1.43 point-per-game average in the playoffs was fifth best. and his +15 was tied for third best.
All of this is to say, is that Squires' entry level deal is well earned. As of right now, the expectation is that he will return to Cape Breton for the upcoming season, before going pro in the 2025-26 season.