The New Jersey Devils has re-signed Patrik Elias and to new contracts.

 

Patrik Elias
Bruce Bennett/Getty Images
loading...

ESPN.com reports Elias, the Devils' all-time leader in goals (375) and assists (555) signed a 3 year, $16.5 million contract, preventing him from becoming an unrestricted free agent on Friday.

In a statement, Elias said, "This year marks my 17th year with the Devils, and it's very special to be a member of one organization for my entire career. We've shared some great moments together, and I look forward to working with everyone to create new ones. Go Devils!"

Elias had expressed the hope he would re-sign with the Devils at the end of the season in which the team failed to make the playoffs.

New Jersey also re-signed veteran forward Zubrus to a three-year, $9.3 million contract. A person familiar with the deal revealed the terms to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because the Devils didn't release those numbers.

Dainius Zubrus
Dainius Zubrus (Christian Petersen, Getty Images)
loading...

Zubrus is a 16-year NHL veteran, who has spent the past six seasons with New Jersey.

Zubrus had two goals and seven assists in 22 games last season. He missed 26 games after having surgery to repair an injured left wrist.

New Jersey is expected to lose forward David Clarkson, who will test free agency on Friday. Forwards Steve Sullivan, Alexei Ponikarovsky and defenseman Marek Zidlicky are also eligible to become unrestricted free agents.

The person also revealed the Devils placed veteran backup goalie Johan Hedberg on unconditional waivers for the purpose of buying out the final year of his contract.

Hedberg is a 12-year NHL veteran who has become the odd-man out in New Jersey. Longtime starter Martin Brodeur has one year left on his contract, and the Devils made a move to secure his successor by acquiring goalie Cory Schneider in a trade with Vancouver during the NHL draft on Sunday.

Hedberg went 6-10-3 with one shutout last season. Overall, he is 161-143-36 with 22 shutouts.

The Associated Press contributed to this story

More From 92.7 WOBM