Watching his dad play also gave Stillman the opportunity to absorb and learn the game from an NHL veteran. General Manager Tom Fitzgerald knows the impact that situation can have from first-hand experience with his own sons.
"They're sponges from their dads," Fitzgerald said. "Their dads (can) tell them something unique that their coaches might not know. You just try to help them with some of the little things you pick up on that could help them."
"I actually remember quite a bit from it," Stillman said about his father's playing days. "It was super nice to be able to grow up in that culture and be surrounded by the game and I think, ultimately, it did help me for my development and kind of learn how to carry myself as a pro."
In addition to the family ties to hockey, Stillman credits his time with Hockey Canada at the 2021 IIHF Under-18 World Championship for allowing him to take a step with his career.
"I got to broadcast a little bit of my physical side of things where I've grown a couple inches and put on 15-pounds or so. I think my game kind of took off from there and it's just a little bit of a stepping stone for what I'm able to bring."
In addition to U18s, the 29th overall selection spent time overseas with Esbjerg Jr in the Denmark Junior league. With both teams, Stillman scored 11 goals and had nine assists for a total of 20 points over 15 games.
What sold the Devils and Fitzgerald on picking Stillman with their final first-round pick Friday night?
"Our scouts are extremely passionate about Chase. He's got very good skill but the motor just runs and runs and runs and you can't teach that," said Fitzgerald. "With Chase sometimes you probably have to pull him back a little bit.
"We're really excited about Chase, it's a great opportunity for him, his development is starting right now with the New Jersey Devils."
