Is Martin Brodeur a Real Possibility for the Blackhawks?

New Jersey Devils Goaltender Martin Brodeur will be testing free agency to see what comes his way.

According to ESPN, the Chicago Blackhawks may be interested in signing the 40-year-old netminder.

Suspicion that Brodeur would want to leave the Devils grew when he hired the same agent who works with both Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews.

It would be a good situation for the Blackhawks as well. Marty Brodeur would be a temporary upgrade in net and could very well be what the Blackhawks need to backstop them to another Stanley Cup title.

Blackhawks goaltender Corey Crawford struggled throughout the year, leading to many questions as to whether or not he can sustain a full season as a No. 1 goalie.

The realistic possibility of the Blackhawks signing Brodeur means that Crawford will once again be the backup to an aging netminder. 

This would also mean that Ray Emery would be the odd man out.

But can Brodeur step up and play like the all-time wins leader that he is?

Time and time again, older players have stepped up for a season or two to play exceptionally well for their new teams. Just look at Jaromir Jagr and his stint with the Philadelphia Flyers.

There is also the question of the Blackhawks' defense, which is still missing a few key pieces.

Can Brodeur make up for the defensive lapses?

The Blackhawks could afford to sign Brodeur—who would cost around $3-4 million per year— and still have enough room to pick up Ryan Suter. That is, of course, if they trade Niklas Hjalmarsson.

Who knows what tomorrow will bring on the Blackhawks' front, but whatever the case, Brodeur is an elite goaltender that should not be passed up. 

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