By MARK EVERSON

Devils goalie Martin Brodeur is close to beginning on-ice workouts in his rehabilitation from biceps tendon reattachment. “Hopefully, here soon, he’ll be able to get back on the ice,” Brent Sutter said. “But that still doesn’t mean he’s anywhere closer to playing. It’s just a situation where he can take that next step in his rehab.”

The Devils were hopeful Brodeur would receive blessing to skate during the All-Star break, which begins after tonight’s home game against the Canadiens.

The Devils entered 22-13-1 without Brodeur, who left the lineup Nov. 1 and underwent surgery on his left elbow five days later.