Defenseman Johnny Oduya agrees to multiyear deal to stay with New Jersey Devils

Defenseman Johnny Oduya re-signs with Devils

NEWARK, N.J. — The New Jersey Devils are keeping Johnny Oduya away from the free-agent market, agreeing to terms with the defenseman on a new contract.

The team said Tuesday that Oduya has agreed to a multiyear deal. The 27-year-old defenseman had career highs with seven goals, 22 assists and 29 points last season — his third in the NHL.

Devils president Lou Lamoriello says Oduya “has developed into one of the more talented young defensemen in the National Hockey League.”

Oduya could have become an unrestricted free agent on Wednesday.