Hischier on a Quest for Gold | PODCAST

Peek the preliminary standings in the IIHF World Championship, which is currently underway in Finland, and you'll notice a country sitting at the top that may surprise you.
Switzerland so far is a perfect 6-0-0-0 in the tournament for an eye-popping 18 points. Of course, the Swiss aren't considered a powerhouse necessarily on the international stage. But Swiss captain, and Devils captain, Nico Hischier and his fellow countrymen are trying to change that.
"We are going there with a clear mindset. We want to win," he told the Speak of the Devils podcast. "We never won a gold medal so that's our main goal. We've shown in the last few years that we are right there. We can compete with the bigger countries. I'm not afraid to say that's our goal."

Though the quest for gold continues, regardless, Hischier loves playing for Switzerland in these international tournaments.
"You're representing your country. That's something that makes me proud," Hischier said. "I have a lot of friends on that team that I played with when I was younger, too. It's always a different vibe in tournaments like this. With all the fans you have different cultures coming together, cheering for this beautiful game of hockey. Sharing this passion together and competing against other countries is a fun experience."
It's obviously a bitter-sweet experience for Hischier. Though he loves wearing a Team Switzerland sweater, playing in the tournament means the Devils once again did not qualify for the Stanley Cup playoffs.
"We just never really had the chance to have our full lineup for a long stretch of the season," he said. "There was always somebody out. It's not an excuse. It's a fact. But on the other hand, I'm here to have success. So, it's hard to sit here again and not make the playoffs again."
On a personal note, Hischier did take big steps in his own game both offensively and defensively. He was relied upon as the team's top shutdown center and penalty killer, while also setting career highs in goals (21), assists (39) and points (60).
"At the end of the year, I felt like it was clicking," he said of his game. "I played with a lot of confidence. Pucks just went in."
Here are some other topics Hischier discussed on the Speak of the Devils podcast…
New Jersey Devils Official Podcast
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Nico Hischier | Speak of the Devils