Kovalchuk Retires

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No your eyes are not playing tricks on you, because yesterday in a shock move, New Jersey Devils forward Ilya Kovalchuk has announced his retirement from the NHL at the age of just 30! The Russian was only 3 years into a $77 Million 15 year agreement at the Prudential Center but according to Devils GM Lou Lamiorello, Kovalchuk has signed his voluntary retirement papers officially voiding the deal!
This opens the door to more speculation as to whether he will return to his native Russia to play in the KHL, Kovalchuk played for SKA St Petersburg during last season’s lockout and has been alleged to have been considering returning home for some time.

A 1st overall pick by the Atlanta Thrashers in 2001, Kovalchuk has amassed an impressive points records in the NHL with over 417 goals and 816 points overall. He was also a winner of the Rocket Richard Scoring Trophy back in 2004 after a 41 goal season. He joined New Jersey in 2010 and has enjoyed the best spell of his career making the Stanley Cup final in 2012 and being selected for the NHL All Star Game the same year!

I have no doubts that Devils fans will miss this man greatly as he has formed the core of their offense the past four seasons, whatever your decision Ilya both of us here wish you all the best!

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