The Edmonton Oilers recruited a couple of former greats to help lure college free agent Justin Schultz west.
Wayne Gretzky and Paul Coffey both spoke with Schultz on Edmonton's behalf.
The Oilers remain a top contender for the 21-year-old defenceman who is expected to decide where his NHL career will start on Saturday.
Martin Brodeur wants to play two more years, but may consider a one-year deal depending on the team offering, especially if that team is the New Jersey Devils.
Brodeur isn't keen on leaving the Devils, but he is serious about testing the open market. He hired Pat Brisson on Thursday night to guide him through the process and told Brisson he has given the possibility of change a great deal of thought.
With no offer from New Jersey, Brodeur doesn't feel he has a choice.
Florida, Tampa Bay and Chicago are believed to be most interested in the 40-year-old goalie who knows his value comes in the form of a mentor role which he's willing to embrace.
It's likely the Devils table a last minute offer. If not, Brodeur's status as a free agent may greatly impact Roberto Luongo's future.
The Panthers remain a primary trade partner for the Canucks, but Vancouver's asking price is still too high. If Brodeur is available, Florida will be among the contenders and may back away from negotiations with the Canucks.
The Toronto Maple Leafs may also benefit from a Brodeur move. If Brodeur lands in either Tampa Bay or Florida, the market shrinks for Luongo and, plus the potential for Jose Theodore or Mathieu Garon becoming available, is plausible.
Free agency and trade possibilities link many players, and this offseason the market includes two highly coveted defencemen, at least three star forwards and now, thanks to Martin Brodeur, a pair of veteran goalies.