Devils owner: Extension for Hall the highest priority for summer 2019

New Jersey Devils owner Josh Harris isn't taking the future of his franchise player for granted.

Reigning MVP Taylor Hall has two years left on his contract, meaning he's eligible to sign an extension at any point starting next July 1. Harris is putting long-term security for the 26-year-old at the top of his to-do list.

"High. The highest," Harris said when asked where Hall's next deal ranks on his priorities, according to Chris Ryan of NJ.com. "He's committed, he's authentic, he is an amazing player obviously. He's a guy you build around. Whether it's him, Nico (Hischier), Will (Butcher). Taylor is definitely going to be front and center, so it will definitely be a high priority. I hope I'm working with Taylor for a long time."

Hall is slated to make $6 million for the next two seasons - the ninth-highest cap hit in the league for a left winger. He's on track for a considerable raise after recording 39 goals and 54 assists in 79 games this past season. His performance helped carry the Devils to the playoffs for the first time since 2012.

New Jersey currently has just five players signed beyond 2020, and without taking on any big contracts this offseason, the Devils are set to have plenty of cap space to pay Hall - who would become an unrestricted free agent in 2020 if an extension isn't agreed upon.