Just told by informed source that Wild has targeted Halak and are expected to get him from Buffalo...so that would be a NO re Brodeur....
— Larry Brooks (@NYP_Brooksie) March 4, 2014
Earlier today, the New York Daily News reported the Devils and Minnesota “have agreed upon a deal that would send the lifelong Devil and future Hall of Famer to the Wild.”
The report went on to add the deal was pending Brodeur’s approval -- he has a no-trade clause -- and, bizarrely, was contingent upon him playing tonight against Detroit for one final home game in front of the New Jersey faithful.
Needless to say, the concept of a “farewell” game with all its inherent injury risks was a little far-fetched for some:Idea that Devils would trade Brodeur and allow him to play a “home farewell” is ridiculous.
— Rich Chere (@Ledger_NJDevils) March 4, 2014
Brodeur might indeed be going to Minny but idea that Devils, locked in life/death race, are starting him tonight as “favor” is a bit much
— Larry Brooks (@NYP_Brooksie) March 4, 2014
I don’t make a habit of refuting reports, but there’s no indication inside the #mnwild that this Martin Brodeur story is true and (1/2)
— Michael Russo (@Russostrib) March 4, 2014
No #NHL GM is going to risk a trade to let somebody play one more ceremonial game in front of fans, risk injury and ruin trade. #mnwild
— Michael Russo (@Russostrib) March 4, 2014
The Wild are in need of some sort of veteran goaltending presence given the unlikelihood of Josh Harding’s return, Niklas Backstrom’s inconsistent health and Darcy Kuepmer’s inexperience.
Halak, a pending UFA, could be as equally useful as Brodeur in terms of a rental, but comes with a far less decorated resume.