After the Winnipeg Jets were eliminated from the Stanley Cup Playoffs with a Game 6 loss to the Dallas Stars, forward Nino Niederreiter isn’t hanging up his skates just yet. The veteran winger is heading overseas to join Team Switzerland at the 2025 IIHF World Hockey Championship.

The 32-year-old continues to be a staple on the international stage for his home country. This marks the ninth time Niederreiter will represent Switzerland at the tournament. He is one of just three players — alongside Roman Josi and goaltender Reto Berra — to have been part of every Swiss team that has medaled in the modern era of the World Championships.

“It’s obviously bitter for Nino that the playoffs ended this way, but for us it’s a huge win,” said Swiss head coach Patrick Fischer in an interview with a national hockey outlet. “With his experience, commitment, and leadership qualities, he’s an important addition to our team.”

Niederreiter had a strong showing in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, contributing four goals and two assists in 13 games for the Jets. His postseason performance followed a solid regular season and speaks to the consistency and veteran presence he brings to any lineup — NHL or international.

Switzerland is already enjoying a dominant tournament, sitting atop Group B with a 5-0-1-0 record and 16 points. The Swiss cruised to a 10–0 win over Hungary on Monday morning and have officially punched their ticket to the quarterfinals. They’ll close out the round-robin stage against Kazakhstan on Tuesday.

The timing of Niederreiter’s arrival couldn’t be better, as Switzerland recently lost their captain, Nico Hischier, to injury. Niederreiter, who helped lead Switzerland to a silver medal in 2024 with seven points (3 goals, 4 assists) in 10 games, will be leaned on heavily once again.