The New Jersey Devils announced on Tuesday that star forward Jack Hughes has signed an eight-year, $64-million deal with the team, ahead of the 20-year-old centre’s RFA eligibility. The first-overall pick of the 2019 draft, Hughes was set to become a restricted free agent after this season. His new deal carries an average annual value of $8 million.

Hughes said via a press release: “I believe in what we are doing here, and we have a great chance to be successful for a long time. This contract shows that this team is extremely invested in me and I’m also really dedicated to this organization.”  NJ Devils managing partner David Blitzer said: “We all know what Jack means to the team on and off the ice. He’s an unbelievable player and a fantastic person. His future is incredibly bright and he will be a pillar for our franchise for years to come.”

Hughes has scored 20 goals and 55 points in 119 career NHL games over the last three years. He missed the last 17 contests due to a dislocated shoulder, but was expected to return to the Devils’ lineup on Tuesday night against the San Jose Sharks.

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