Martin Brodeur a free-agent?

We certainly didn’t see this move coming.

Never mind the retirement talk, veteran goalie Martin Brodeur appears ready to shop himself around this July 1.

TSN’s Darren Dreger reports Brodeur has hired agent Pat Brisson and is “very likely” to test the free agent market.

“Brodeur has had limited contract discussions with (the New Jersey) Devils. Could still sign before Sunday, but leaning now toward open market.”

There should be plenty of interest from around the league in adding the elite goaltender — if only for one year (two, maybe?) Or perhaps Brodeur is more interested in persuading the Devils to present a solid deal before July 1.

ESPN.com’s Pierre LeBrun:

“If Brodeur does indeed leave NJ, you have to imagine Toronto would be an intriguing spot. Brodeur helping (James) Reimer’s development?”

The HockeyFanLand Insight

I’m sure everybody who reads this will agree it would be weird to see the National Hockey League’s winningest goalie of all-time as a member of any other NHL team.

The New Jersey Devils have been the only team besides Canada that Marty has worn a jersey for professionally. I have one question: Why would he switch teams at this point? Let’s not forget the New Jersey Devils just recently represented the Eastern Conference champions.