NEWARK, N.J. -- Luke Hughes had his mind set on securing a long-term contract with the New Jersey Devils, to remain in the place he already considers his home away from home.

The 22-year-old defenseman was happy to prove his allegiance on Wednesday when he signed a seven-year, $63 million contract ($9 million average annual value).

"I love New Jersey; my brother (center Jack Hughes ) loves New Jersey," Luke Hughes said after joining the Devils for practice at Prudential Center on Thursday. "It's a second home and obviously we love what the organization is doing and where we're going.

"Hopefully I play here the rest of my career. It's a great place to play. I love the fans and [I] have a great relationship with [general manager Tom Fitzgerald]."

Hughes was certainly a welcome site

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