Devils Sign Josefson, Gazdic

The Devils have announced that they have resigned center Jacob Josefson to a one-year 1.1 million dollar contract. Josefson, 25, established a career high in points last year with 14, including a career high 10 assists in 58 games.

In addition to Josefson, the Devils have signed Luke Gazdic to a one-year $600,000 contract. Gazdic, who spent the last three years with the Edmonton Oilers. Gadzic posted one assist in 28 NHL games last season.

A Quick Breakdown - Josefson

Josefson, who was given a qualifying offer prior to the deadline last week, will return to New Jersey at a fair contract based on his production and pedigree. Josefson posted a career high in points with 14 and was on pace for a 19point season. While he certainly hasn't lived up to expectations after being selected 20th overall in the 2009 draft, Josefson has failed to prove himself to be the two way force many were expecting.

While lackluster offensively, Josefson has provided a unique element to the power play, playing on the half-boards. Without Josefson, the power play suffered and upon his return, it seemed to gain new life. Whether or not this is coincidence is debatable, but anyway to score more goals is welcome by this team.

Josefson will likely return in a bottom six role, killing penalties and possibly continuing to play on the power play. This contract will likely be a "prove-it" contract for him. Without production, it is likely that he this year will be his last in New Jersey.

A Quick Breakdown - Gazdic

In another signing announced this afternoon, the Devils have brought in left winger Luke Gazdic. While Gazdic, 26, is likely to play in the AHL and is signed to a two-way contract, this move may be a little more complex than it seem.

While in Edmonton Gazdic was roommates of new Devils' forward Taylor Hall. Some familiarity in the organization with Gazdic may help Hall's speed up acclimation to living the East Coast. Gazdic will likely take on the role Pierre Luc-Letourneau Leblond served in Albany.

Your Take

What do you think of Josefson returning? What about the addition of Gazdic to the organization? Will Josefson finally make the offensive jump this year? Let us know your thoughts and as always, thank you for reading!