The Toronto Maple Leafs showed serious interest in adding Martin Brodeur during free agency.
The 40-year-old goalie said he had several discussions with members of the Maple Leafs’ front office before re-signing with the New Jersey Devils on Monday morning.
“I was able to talk to (Leafs GM) Brian Burke and also Dave Nonis,” Brodeur told Roger Lajoie and Ric Nattress on Sportsnet 590 The Fan on Monday. “We had great conversations. Love the direction where they’re going.”
Brodeur said his No. 1 priority was getting a two-year contract from the Devils but the 40-year-old was impressed with what the Leafs had to offer.
“For me it could’ve been a fit but ultimately when Lou (Lamiorello) came back with that extra year, that made a big difference. They seemed like they were really interested,” he said. “But I know that the organization is making the right steps for them.”
Maple Leafs vice-president of hockey operations Dave Poulin confirmed to Lajoie and Nattress that the Leafs, who are said to be looking for a veteran goaltender, did pursue Brodeur when he became an unrestricted free agent on July 1.
“We were involved and we thought it might be a very good fit on a short-term situation,” Poulin said. “He had played at the top of his game very, very recently so we definitely explored that possibility.”
It is unclear if the Leafs will target Vancouver Canucks goaltender Roberto Luongo now that Brodeur is off the market.
Burke has made it clear he is willing to go into the season with incumbent starter James Reimer and Ben Scrivens if he is unable to upgrade the position through free agency or trade.
