(photo credit: Ed Mulholland)
On June 23, 2017, in Chicago Ill., the New Jersey Devils drafted Nico Hischier first overall from the Halifax Mooseheads. On Feb. 20, 2021, Hischier was named the 12th captain of the New Jersey Devils.
Hischier grew up in Naters, Switzerland before moving to Bern to play hockey. He was drafted sixth overall in the CHL Import draft by the Halifax Mooseheads. Hischier was a member of the Mooseheads for a year where he had 38 goals and 48 assists for 86 points in 57 games.
After being drafted to the NHL, Hischier played his rookie season right away. He played 82 games in the 2017-2018 season. As a rookie, he had 20 goals and 32 assists for 52 points.
While the Devils did make the playoffs that year, they would continue down a tough route and miss the playoffs the next four seasons in a row. Hischier has
unfortunately suffered from some injuries throughout his career so far.
A fan favorite, a hard working player and a skilled 200-foot centre, Hischier has played an important role in the Devils organization. None more so important than that of captain. Hischier first wore the “C” in the 2020-21 season, where he played 21 games and scored six goals and had five assists for 11 points.
Hischier had a record breaking year last season with 31 goals and 49 assists for 80 points in 81 games. He helped lead a star studded, powerful Devils team to the playoffs. The team played 12 games and Hischier had one goal and six assists.
The Swiss captain was up for the Selke Trophy last season, which is awarded to the best defensive forward in the league. Hischier has drawn comparisons to an early Jonathan Toews in his ability to be a productive offensive player who is able to keep up defensively against the top forwards in the league.
Devils head coach Lindy Ruff spoke highly about the centre in 2022.
“He wants to take care of every single one of his teammates – maybe to a fault sometimes. He wants to lead by example,” Ruff said.
This is a testament to just how much Hischier cares about his team and the organization he represents night and night out. Hischier continues to show his teammates, the organization, and Devils fans just how committed he is.
“I’ve always have the team-first mentality, I just do whatever I can to help the team,” Hischier said, according to a tweet by Devils reporter Amanda Stein.
The 25-year-old forward has lots to learn with still being young and a captain for only three years. However, the foundation on which he has built himself on and is building this Devils team on is a good one. The chase for the cup is still on for number 13 and the New Jersey Devils.
(photo credit: Joe Buglewicz)
Editor: Soleil Dam
Content Creator: Jenna Falkenheim
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