Mike 'Not Martin' Brodeur sticking with the Senators

The Ottawa Senators got one of their unrestricted free agent signings out of the way on Wednesday. Although it wasn't one of the bigger names, getting Mike Brodeur back under contract was a good move for the Sens--especially on the two-way deal they have him signed to.

Brodeur's got a pretty good resume, especially over the last few years. Most Ottawa fans will remember his first taste of NHL action, with three wins in his first three games and a GAA of 1.00. Although his AHL numbers in 2009-10 (3.06 GAA, .899 SP) left something to be desired, he had a bit of an excuse with his injury problems. And his NHL play probably warrants him an extra shot, especially considering his all-star calibre play in 2008-09 with the Rochester Americans.

So, what does Brodeur's signing mean for the Senators' goaltending depth? A few things, in all likelihood.

To be honest, it probably means very little to our NHL depth chart. Pascal Leclaire and Brian Elliott are both under one-way contracts, and Leclaire won't be tradeable while Elliott seems, at this time, like a he's got more upside. So I doubt either of them are going anywhere, and Brodeur's probably the number three guy.

In the AHL, though, it should keep things lively. Young and very promising prospect Robin Lehner will likely go head-to-head against Brodeur for the starting gig with the Binghamton Senators, which is probably a good thing for the organization. Lehner will be pushed, and my money's on him becoming the starter in Bingo. If not, however, we've got an experienced goaltender in Brodeur down on the farm.

So right now, the depth chart likely goes Leclaire > Elliott > Brodeur > Lehner, but that will almost certainly change after training camp, and could very well change with more summer signings. It remains to be seen if either Chris Holt or Andy Chiodo will be brought back, but the Elmira Jackals need someone to tend nets in the ECHL. We'll see what else the summer brings.