10. Also very happy: Devils captain
Nico Hischier, also using the word “excitement” to describe New Jersey’s moves. Last season was not fun for him or his team. “It’s always easier to be the underdog. It was definitely a bit overwhelming sometimes last year, but I think a great learning lesson. Every year is new…it's another roller-coaster and you’ve got to grow as a group the longer the season gets. You’ve got to stick together because anything is possible.”
Two years ago, when the Devils beat the Rangers in the playoffs, they had a long winning streak in November, so the cushion was created. Nothing like that in 2023-24. “We never got going.” Anyone who knows Hischier knows he wears it hard when things go badly. “I always want to win,” he said. “That’s not a secret. I hate losing. As a captain I want to do more, I need to do more…Was I frustrated? Yes it just sucks. You obviously want the team to do better…Sometimes I have to go home and say to myself, I gave everything I can. That’s it. But those fans who keep calling me a 3C really hurt my feelings. I am definitely better than that. Hopefully this year I can show that.”
In the middle of a tough year, a few Devils gave Hischier major credit for never saying no to charitable or important requests. “We are in a spot where you do little things that have an impact. Even if it’s just a little smile or make a family happy — a small thing we can do (becomes a big thing for them). It’s hard to say no to that.” That’s terrific stuff, and very true. I liked what New Jersey did. They had a good off-season.
