Martin Brodeur coming back to the New Jersey Devils next season is not a foregone conclusion.
The 40-year-old goaltender, who has been synonymous with the franchise in his two decades in the net, has hired player agent Pat Brisson and could be ready to test the free agent market.
Brodeur has had preliminary discussions with the Devils for a new deal and he could still re-sign with the only team he has ever known. But Brisson says he will entertain other offers if a deal is not reached by the start of the free agent period July 1.
"He will be testing free agency if a deal is not in place by Sunday," Brisson told TSN on Friday.
Brodeur helped lead the Devils to the Stanley Cup Finals, where they fell to the Los Angeles Kings in six games.
The future Hall of Famer has won three Stanley Cups in New Jersey and holds the all-time records for career wins, shutouts and playoff shutouts.
New Jersey began the process of at least securing five players, including the entire fourth line - Steve Bernier, Ryan Carter and Stephen Gionta - that was put together in time for the playoffs and played a key role in victories over the Panthers, Rangers and Flyers. Also re-signed were forward Cam Janssen and defenseman Peter Harrold.
The Associated Press contributed to this report
