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Nico Hischier Drops Carefully Worded Answer on Future with the Devils

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | Last updated Apr 7, 2026 1:48 PM ET

Nico Hischier just dropped the most carefully worded non-answer on his future with the New Jersey Devils. Following news of the GM’s firing and talk that Sheldon Keefe could be on the hot seat as coach, the next question will surround the players. Who stays and who goes?

When asked if the firing of GM Tom Fitzgerald changes anything about his situation with the team, Hischier said:

“I’m focusing on playing hockey here. I still have one more year. So I’m with the Devils right now and then we’ll see what happens.”

While he’s got another season left on his current deal, Hischier is extension-eligible July 1 and hits UFA in 2027. The changes in New Jersey and the struggles they face this season have to give players reasons to wonder where things are going.

Hischier is the Devils’ captain and arguably the heart and soul of the team. He was drafted 1st overall by the club in 2017 and has been the foundation of the core the Devils have been trying to build, later adding Jack and Luke Hughes to it.

That he’s not saying he’s committed to the team is a bit of an eye-opener.

Should The Devils Try to Lock Up Hischier Long-Term?

The new GM’s first massive priority this summer has to be locking up Nico long-term (think 7 years, $9-11M AAV range). This will send a message to the rest of the roster and possible incoming free agents that the team isn’t looking to retool or rebuild. He’s just 27 and still productive.

However, if the Devils do opt for a different approach, they may owe Hischier a chance to move on rather than stay with a team that is spinning its wheels.

Is this the start of real exit rumors, or just captain-speak until a new regime shows commitment?

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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