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Nico Hischier lays the groundwork for NJ Devils' upcoming season ahead of season opener at NHL Global Series
New Jersey Devils captain Nico Hischier believes his team can push the limits on expectations this season. On Thursday, Hischier expressed his optimism regarding the Devils’ chances to do well this season in an interview with beat reporter Amanda Stein.
“A lot is possible," Hischier said. "I don’t want our team to look at the big picture. I want us to take game by game, work hard every game, get better every day, and grow into the team that we can be and push the limits high.”
Hischier’s upbeat comments come on the heels of a disappointing season last year. The Devils were picked to contend last season after making it to the second round of the playoffs in 2022-23. However, injuries and inconsistency caused New Jersey to miss the postseason.
This season, new coach Sheldon Keefe and netminder Jacob Markstrom look to solidify the team’s chances of success in the Metro Division. Plus, the return of top defenseman Dougie Hamilton and top scorer Jack Hughes looks to be a huge boost for New Jersey.
The Devils will open their season in Prague, Czechia, as they take on the Buffalo Sabres in this year’s Global Series. The two clubs will square off on Oct. 4 and 5 in what promises to be an entertaining showdown.
It’s not just one guy leading the Devils this season
Hischier’s leadership is undeniably crucial in New Jersey’s locker room. But this season, the team has surrounded Hischier with support.
Sheldon Keefe commented on the support around Hischier this season, per the Hockey News:
“It’s not just one guy. It takes a team. It takes support. From what I have seen with all the additions (HIschier) is going to have a lot more support from a leadership standpoint.”
That support is pivotal as New Jersey looks to get back into the playoff conversation this season. In addition to Keefe’s backing behind the bench, other players on the ice will be there to provide Hischier with the backup he needs.
“A lot of different types of personalities. You need different types of leaders, and I think we have that," Keefe said. "That is going to support, certainly, Nico as the captain, but our entire team."
Veterans like Timo Meier understand what it takes to lead. The Hockey News quoted Meier, who said:
"Some guys might be speaking up more. Some guys might be leading by example. Everybody has their own way of showing their leadership."
As New Jersey kicks off its season in Europe, fans’ expectations will focus on making the playoffs this season. With a talent-laden roster and savvy coach, the sky’s the limit for the Devils this season.
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