Nico Hischier is staying in New Jersey. The Devils captain, 27, signed a five-year, $58.5 million contract extension on Wednesday, ending a turbulent offseason of questions about the franchise's direction.
The Swiss center was the team's leading goal-scorer last season with 28, and his 66 points ranked third behind Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt. Hischier has been limited to just three playoff appearances and one series win since entering the league in 2017.
"I want to turn the ship around here and ... I want to be part of the solution," Hischier told reporters on a video call. The deal keeps the 2017 first-overall pick off next summer's free-agent market.
New Jersey has missed the playoffs three straight seasons. The extension solidifies their core of Hughes, Bratt and Hischier as the organization looks to reverse fortunes in a competitive Metropolitan Division.
The Devils open their regular season in October. Hischier will enter his 10th NHL campaign needing to deliver on his commitment to end the franchise's postseason drought.