By Chris Rotolo, Staff Reports
Twitter: rote7123
Ilya Kovalchuk sent shock waves through the hockey world this afternoon as the Russian-born New Jersey Devils winger and perennial all star announced his retirement from the NHL at age 30.
Rumors swirled around Newark this past season about Kovalchuk's desire to return to the NHL, as the lockout shortened campaign saw him return home to play in the KHL, where he was named an All-Star before heading back to New Jersey. Now it appears those rumors of a permanent departure were more than speculation.
“This decision was something I have thought about for a long time going back to the lockout and spending the year in Russia," said Kovalchuk via press release. "Though I decided to return this past season, Lou was aware of my desire to go back home and have my family there with me. The most difficult thing for me is to leave the New Jersey Devils, a great organization that I have a lot of respect for, and our fans that have been great to me."
“After many conversations with Ilya over the past year on his desire to retire from the National Hockey League, Ilya's decision became official today," said Devils GM Lou Lamoriello. "On behalf of the entire organization, I wish Ilya and his family all the best in their future endeavors.”
The Devils were scrutinized and the organization nearly fined several draft picks after signing Kovalchuk back in 2010 to a 15-year, $100 million deal, which still has 12 years and $77 million remaining.
With Kovalchuk's decision to leave so goes his massive contract and cap hit, as well as a player that never fit the Devils defensive-minded system. As well as the ridiculed contract so was Kovalchuk's inability to mesh with coach Peter Deboer's philosophies. Though blinded by the short term situation (mounting Twitter rants acting as evidence), Kovalchuk's retirement will prove to be a gift from the hockey Gods bestowed upon Newark's finest.
