Command was the 12th overall pick by New Jersey in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft on Friday.
Command is a polished pivot whose draft stock shot up over the course of the season. How much? He was at one time a borderline selection in round six on NHL Central Scouting's preliminary list. Now, he's a first-rounder. Nothing about his game stands out. But Command commands the ice with his strength, two-way skills and work at the dot. He consistently wins puck battles and knows his role. Command is likely going to be the Devils' third-line center, top forechecker and PK specialist for a long time. He might even wear a letter and help them lift the Stanley Cup. Think Scott Laughton, but in New Jersey.