By Jordan Long
Ilya Kovalchuk wanted to return to the NHL this upcoming season. He hasn’t appeared in the NHL since 2013 when he played with the New Jersey Devils. The Devils control his NHL rights and couldn’t find a trade partner. Kovalchuk returns to Russia to play in the Kontinetal Hockey League (KHL) and will pursue a comeback to the NHL next season when he is eligible to be a free agent.
Kovalchuk can still play at a high level. In 245 games with Saint Petersburg of the KHL he scored 107 goals and added 157 assists for a total of 264 points. Kovalchuk can score on the power play with 34 goals. When short-handed, teams had to be very careful with him because one stride and he could be gone for a scoring chance. Kovalchuk added 3 short-handed goals in the KHL. Kovalchuk will now keep scoring goals and finding his teammates on the open ice in the KHL.
The NHL can wait for one more year. By staying in Russia, Kovalchuk is eligible to play in the 2018 Winter Olympics. He wouldn’t have the opportunity with the NHL since they will not send their players.
The New Jersey Devils on the other hand are making a huge mistake. They could have received something back for Kovalchuk. General Manager of the New Jersey Devils, Ray Shero, talked to teams but didn’t like what they had to offer. He could have received draft picks or other players but decided it was best to pass.
Next summer, Kovalchuk will be a free agent and can sign with any team. He will have his pick of teams to play for. The Devils will regret the decision to not trade him to another team to at least receive something in return for him.
For Kovalchuk next season will be the year since he will be one of the top names in free agency. Teams will be lining up for him because of his skating ability. Kovalchuk sees the ice well and his speed creates scoring chances. He also finds his teammates on the ice for them to score. Kovalchuk can even play the power play and power play kill. He has everything an NHL team looks for in a forward and will help any team. For now, Kovalchuk will keep up his skills in the KHL.
What do you think of the Devils not trading Ilya Kovalchuk this summer? Where do you think he will land next year?
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