Lou Lamoriello went with a more proven track record when deciding on a backup plan for starting goaltender Martin Brodeur.
The New Jersey Devils general manager went outside the organization Thursday, signing veteran Kevin Weekes to a two-year, $1.375-million US contract.
"Kevin Weekes has played more than 300 career NHL games and will bring added experience as a backup goaltender to Martin Brodeur," said Lamoriello.
Weekes, 32, fashioned a 4-6-2 record with a 3.39 goals-against average in 14 games for the New York Rangers last season.
He is likely to see even less action in 2007-08, as Brodeur appeared in 78 contests last season, going 48-23-7 with a 2.18 GAA.
Weekes has 96 wins and 19 shutouts in 323 career NHL regular-season games for Florida, Vancouver, Tampa Bay, Carolina, the New York Islanders and Rangers.
The Toronto native recorded a career-high 23 victories and six shutouts with Carolina in 2003-04.
Free agent Scott Clemmensen did an admirable job as Brodeur's backup the last three seasons, posting a 3.15 GAA and .889 save percentage in six games in the 2006-07 campaign.
With files from the Canadian Press
