UFA Again: Kovy-gate continues

NHLHS New Jersey Devils Correspondent Shannon Caulfield reports on the arbitration ruling of Ilya Kovalchuk.

The summer of Kovalchuk continues as the independent arbitrator, Richard Bloch, rules favorably with the NHL for the rejection of Ilya Kovalchuk’s 17 year deal with the New Jersey Devils.

The contract was originally agreed to on July 20th, 2010 for $102 million dollars; however it was rejected on the 21st due to salary cap violation.

So what is next for the Russian player that is on everyone’s minds, as well as their tongues and at their finger tips this summer?

According to the Canadian Press, Lamoriello had this to say on the issue:

“While we do not currently have a contract with Ilya Kovalchuk, discussions have resumed and we are hopeful that a contract will be reached that meets with the principles in arbitrator Bloch’s award and the NHL’s approval”

As of late it looks as if Kovalchuk will be staying in the NHL with the New Jersey Devils but as an UFA there is always the slight possibility that another team could draft a contract with Kovy, however it is not very likely.

Then again, this is the NHL and anything is truly possible. Could another team send an offer, meeting both the NHL’s needs as well as Kovalchuk and his needs?  Of course.

Due to the position both the player and the organization have been put into – with an actual press conference introducing the public to the, then, lifelong member of the organization one must admit that it’s New Jersey of bust at this point in time.

Can anyone hear the KHL calling?  Again, not an impossible scenario however, not one that is likely.

In 2001 the Thrashers drafted Kovalchuk first overall. He has 338 goals 304 assists totaling 642 points in 642 games as an NHL player.
In January he was traded to New Jersey subsequently after rejecting a 12 year, $101 million dollar contract with the Thrashers. Kovalchuk had 85 points last year with 41 goals and 44 assists.

He is worth as much money as he believes he deserves, now hopefully he and the Devils can restructure the contract and still come out happy in the end.

Shannon Caulfield
NHLHS New Jersey Devils Correspondent
scaulfield@nhlhotstove.com
Twitter: @Shannybaby99