On the Forecheck

Today we wish a Happy Birthday to #38 of the Nashville Predators, defenseman Jack Hillen (I'm going to see if I can make this a regular bit around here). Picked up over the summer as a depth addition on the free agent market, Hillen has fit in pretty seamlessly with the organization, providing a veteran option during those times when the kids get a little too crazy back there.

Jack Hillen

#38 / Defenseman / Nashville Predators

Height: 5-10

Weight: 190

Born: Jan 24, 1986

Did ya know...

• Hillen plays guitar (no wonder he came here).
• During his senior year at Colorado College, he not only picked up a slew of on-ice honors (WCHA Defenseman of the Year, WCHA 1st Team All-Star, NCAA West 1st Team All- American), but was recognized for his academic work as well (WCHA Scholar Athlete of the Year, ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America Team). His degree is in Economics.
• Won the 2002 Minnesota State high school Championship.

Hillen's an opportunistic offensive presence at times, here scoring a goal back on December 6 against Phoenix which tied the game for the Preds; note the patience to use the time available and pick his target on the shot: