Nico Hischier and the New Jersey Devils did not have a good season. The frustration was apparent for months. For Hischier specifically, there wasn’t much to celebrate. While his teammate Jack Hughes at least has his Golden Goal to help him sleep at night, Hischier’s Switzerland team disappointed at the Winter Olympics.
Back at home, Hischier’s impacts were muted across the board. He didn’t play Selke-level defense. His offensive numbers dropped from 80 points in 2022-23 to failing to hit 70 points despite playing all 82 games this season. He also failed to hit the 30-goal threshold after hitting 35 goals last season.
Worst of all, he captained a team that fell way below expectations. There were multiple games on the schedule where the Devils looked like they had an effort level that left much to be desired. The coaching situation felt off, with Sheldon Keefe now questioning his job security.
The Devils finished the season with as many wins as they had last season, but they had no chance to make the playoffs after big seasons across the Eastern Conference. Despite their late-season run, the Devils still finished 10 points out of the hlast playoff spot.
Hischier at least finished his season at the Purdential Center on a high note. He scored an overtime goal to beat the Ottawa Senators, the final night in the Jersey jersey.
After the Devils lost to the Bruins, Hischier didn’t mince words. He had things to say about this season, and he was ready to wax poetic.
While his comments about being committed to winning a Stanley Cup in New Jersey made fans feel better about his summer negotiations, one comment he made about his teammates had people raising eyebrows.
"If you're here and if you're checked out too early, then you shouldn't be here. "Nico Hischier, Devils captain
Nico Hischier clearly didn't love the effort of the New Jersey Devils
Since this interview, which came right after the game, Hischier had his exit interview. He's not the type of guy to bad mouth his teammates, and he isn't interested in causing a headline. Luckily, he eased everyone's minds when he made it clear he was interested in discussing his future from a positive perspective once the new GM is hired.
Honestly, we don't blame Hischier for feeling the way he does. Players shouldn't be quitting on the ice, and there were moments where it wasn't obvious everyone was giving their top effort. Hopefully, new management brings a new mindset for this team, and Hischier continues to lead by example.
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