NEWARK, N.J. -- Nico Hischier is tired of the New Jersey Devils' early exits from the Stanley Cup Playoffs and feels it's time to change the narrative.

"You're excited for a new year, but obviously I'm at that age where I want to take the next step," the 26-year-old Devils captain said during training camp. "I want to take the next step as a team. I'm in my ninth year and not getting any younger. I'm still at a very good age, but as a team I'm looking forward to taking the next step here."

Hischier and Jesper Bratt , 27, are New Jersey's longest-tenured players. Jack Hughes , 24, is entering his seventh season and isn't far behind.

They are the three who drive the Devils offensively. Hischier, Bratt and Hughes accounted for 34.6 percent of their goals scored (83 goals; 240 total)

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