All the scoffing and all the denials ring hollow today. Reality has dawned that the Devils’ troubled finances actually might contribute to the departure of the face of the franchise, Martin Brodeur, and their captain, Zach Parise, as soon as tomorrow.
Brodeur dealt directly with the Devils this month trying to work out a contract for a 19th season with the team. But without satisfaction, he has taken the dramatic step of hiring super agent Pat Brisson to negotiate with other teams if he turns unrestricted tomorrow.
Though the Devils are believed to have headed into the weekend without presenting contract terms, or even parameters for Parise, the Devils yesterday announced the signings of five other players who could have become unrestricted tomorrow — forwards Stephen Gionta, Ryan Carter, Steve Bernier, and Cam Janssen, and defenseman Peter Harrold.
The signings included the Devils’ entire playoff fourth line, instrumental in their run to within two overtime goals of a fourth Stanley Cup: Gionta, Carter and Bernier. But the biggest names remain unsigned with free agency looming: Brodeur, Parise, Bryce Salvador and Johan Hedberg.
The NHL is believed to have payroll-budget rule over the team, and with an $80 million debt due in August, ownership is said to be seeking to complete a deal with a mystery investor to satisfy the creditors. It may not be a situation conducive to large contracts. Though Brodeur made $5.2 million last season and Parise $6 million, Parise likely will be looking at a deal worth $80-100 million over 8-12 years.
Brisson said he has not had discussions with the Devils himself, while noting that Brodeur has.
The 40-year-old Brodeur, holder of the NHL career records of 1,191 games, 656 victories and 119 shutouts, spoke assuredly after the playoffs that he only would consider the Devils for next season, and that he would represent himself as he has done for more than a decade, with legal assistance. He has used Brisson is other capacities during his career.