Big decisions for Brodeur … Wilson gets extension … Injured Sabres, Vanek’s status unknown
  • Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: The 39 year old Martin Brodeur is in the final year of contract. If he decides to come back next season, would he be willing to be a part-time mentor to a younger goalie? Claude Lemieux’s thoughts on Brodeur:

    “It’s a decision great goalies have to make. Do I want to fade away, maybe becoming a mentor in a number two spot and keep playing? Or, if I can’t be the number one guy and play 60 games, I don’t want to be there.

    “I wouldn’t be surprised with Marty if he didn’t mind just fading away helping the young guys because of his personality. I know Patty (Roy) couldn’t do it because of his personality. It would surprise me if Marty wouldn’t be okay with it.”

    Brodeur’s thoughts:

    “Anything is possible,” Brodeur said. “You have to enjoy what you do. Sometimes you take different roles. I’ve been here for so long that I’ve had different roles regardless of me playing or not playing. Just watching guys and helping guys during their careers to make the right decisions. You have to think the right way and go through hurdles for success.”

    A decision on his future likely won’t come until after the season.

  • Ron Wilson via twitter: “He came! He came!” Remember saying that as a little kid? Well he did: I got a new Red Ryder BB gun and a contract extension!”