Travis Zajac Interview: Zajacs Wheel of Fortune

Travis Zajac is a prime example of a late bloomer. Not even considered for the WHL draft, he opted to play in the BCJHL, where he grew a foot and played so well in his first two years that he became the first player from that league to be a first-round pick. Following a stellar two-year career at the University of North Dakota, where he played with the likes of Drew Stafford and Jonathan Toews, he made the jump this season to the NHL. The New Jersey Devils, known for their off-the-map picks, have really hit another one out of the park, as Zajac plays with the composure of a ten-year veteran and shows the offensive prowess to one day lead this team in scoring.

McKeen's had the privilege to sit down with the young superstar and talk about his season thus far.

McKeen's: Travis, you enter this season as a rookie, yet your game is so complete. How have you been able to adjust so quickly?

Zajac: It has been a little easier than I thought. I think that is a reflection as to the type of player that I am and the system we play here. So far, things have been going great.

McKeen's: You could not pick a better set of linemates to be playing with skating alongside Parise and Langenbrunner.

Zajac: Zach could be one of our best-skilled players on the team and it is no surprise he is having the type of season he is having. Jamie is a proven player in this league and always has been. Stepping in to play with these two has been a real treat.

McKeen's: So there must have been some teams interested in you in the WHL, yet you opted to go to the BCJHL. Were there ever any concerns on your part, that you would not be challenged enough at that level?

Zajac: I was a late bloomer as I was small and never got drafted, so there were really no offers coming my way from the Dub (WHL). The only viable option I had was Tier II and try to go the college route. Looking back on it, I think I made the right decision. Many more people are leaning in that direction now, as it just makes sense to play hockey and get an education.

McKeen's: You have set a precedent now with the league you played in and your draft position. Do you think you gave the league (BCJHL) any credibility with your success?

Zajac: I am not too sure about that, however I can say that the college game is getting more exposure. College hockey is slowly becoming a good springboard for players coming into the NHL.

McKeen's: You left college early to turn pro which has been a great decision. What do you think you took the most out off your college hockey career?

Zajac: I wanted to transform my game into a more complete game and college hockey helped me do that. I became more responsible in all areas of the ice and really focused on my defensive play. I also played with some NHL-calibre talent so it really helped me in so many ways.

McKeen's: Is it ever surreal that you and Drew Stafford are now donning NHL jerseys and playing against one another?

Zajac: If you asked me that question last year and Drew for that matter, we both might have second-guessed ourselves. However, I like to think we bring something to the table and can help our respective programs.

McKeen's: How did you approach the off-season?

Zajac: I worked a lot on strength training. I wanted to get bigger and knew that the competition level would be intense, as some guys are 10-to-15 years older than me. The increased muscle I put on coupled with quickness exercises I did have really helped me keep up on the ice.

McKeen's: So finally what is the best piece of advice you have received this year?

Zajac: In a league that is so competitive, you can't afford to take a night off. It is a long season so true players stay in the league because they can put in consistent efforts and to do that you have to be mentally focused every night.