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Kovalchuk - NHL has lost one of the best players ever to lace up the skates
By Ashley March
Hometown Hockey

Kovalchuk - NHL has lost one of the best players ever to lace up the skates
One of the most talented hockey players to ever play the game is retiring. Ilya Kovalchuk announced today that he is retiring from the NHL, effective immediately. New Jersey Devils GM Lou Lamoriello was the only one to see this coming as Kovalchuk has been wanting to return home to his native Russia for many years now.
PHOTO CREDIT - NHL.com

Cornwall - July 11, 2013 - One of the most talented hockey players to ever play the game is retiring. Ilya Kovalchuk announced today that he is retiring from the NHL, effective immediately.

Lou Lamoriello was the only one to see this coming as Kovalchuk has been wanting to return home to his native Russia for many years now. Kovalchuk has issued this statement:

“This decision was something I have thought about for a long time going back to the lockout and spending the year in Russia. 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.”- NewJerseyDevils.com

Kovalchuk was drafted first overall, (the first for a Russian), in the 2001 draft to the Atlanta Thrashers. After finishing up a storied franchise career with them and a stint with Moscow during the 2005 lockout, Kovalchuk was then traded to the New Jersey Devils in 2010. One impressive statistic that he leaves behind is that is scored 816 in 816 games. Yes folks, that’s a point a game during his entire CAREER. He has numerous international medals under his belt as well.

Will he sign up with a KHL club in his native Russia? That is yet to be seen. However, one thing is for certain. The National Hockey League lost one of the best players ever to lace up the skates.

Follow Me on TwitterAshley March is a passionate hockey fan who is thriving to make her name known in the sports journalism industry. Her exceptional hockey knowledge will keep you informed at all costs. Currently writing for three other NHL teams as well as her own blog at March Hockey, she is proud to be writing for HometownHockey.ca and giving you her perspective. If you have questions or wish to contact Ashley, you can email her at amarch@ourhometown.ca







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