Stephen Gionta played just one regular season game with the Devils in 2011-'12.
But Gionta played in every game of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, and ended up playing his way to his first NHL contract.
Gionta and the Devils agreed on a two-year deal that will keep him in New Jersey, the only organization he's ever played for.
"I like New Jersey. I've been there my whole career," said Gionta. "That was my first choice. Both myself and my family are comfortable with the organization. To get it done so quickly, and so effortlessly was very nice."
The first year of Gionta's deal is a one-way agreement, meaning he will stay in the NHL throughout the season.
"It was awesome," said Gionta. "It's what we were hoping for. It's never a given, because you always have to earn your spot. But to get that opportunity with the one way and get that shot with the club...it's something that's nice to have."
Gionta wasn't the only Devil to re-sign. The team is bringing back its entire fourth line, the same line Gionta played on in the 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs. As for free agents Zach Parise and Martin Brodeur, he hopes the Devils can bring them back as well.
"It'd be great. The chemistry in the locker room was great, and obviously those two guys were huge parts of the team. To get them signed and back is a huge priority."
